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RJR: Recommended Bibliography 18 Jan 2026 at 07:55 Created:
Alzheimer Disease — Treatment
Alzheimer's disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, and eventually the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. In most people with Alzheimer's, symptoms first appear in their mid-60s. Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia among older adults. Dementia is the loss of cognitive functioning — thinking, remembering, and reasoning — and behavioral abilities to such an extent that it interferes with a person's daily life and activities. Dementia ranges in severity from the mildest stage, when it is just beginning to affect a person's functioning, to the most severe stage, when the person must depend completely on others for basic activities of daily living. Scientists don't yet fully understand what causes Alzheimer's disease in most people. There is a genetic component to some cases of early-onset Alzheimer's disease. Late-onset Alzheimer's arises from a complex series of brain changes that occur over decades. The causes probably include a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. The importance of any one of these factors in increasing or decreasing the risk of developing Alzheimer's may differ from person to person. Because of this lack of understanding of the root cause for Alzheimer's Disease, no direct treatment for the condition is yet available. However, this bibliography specifically searches for the idea of treatment in conjunction with Alzheimer's to make it easier to track literature that explores the possibility of treatment.
Created with PubMed® Query: ( alzheimer*[TIAB] AND treatment[TIAB] ) NOT pmcbook NOT ispreviousversion
Citations The Papers (from PubMed®)
RevDate: 2026-01-17
Targeting neuroinflammation by activation of the sigma-1 receptor (S1R) and inhibition of butyrylcholinesterase (hBChE) leads to highly potent anti-amnesic compounds in an Alzheimer's disease mouse model.
European journal of medicinal chemistry, 305:118486 pii:S0223-5234(25)01251-6 [Epub ahead of print].
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder for which no effective preventative or curative treatment has yet been identified. Due to the multifactorial nature and complex pathophysiology of the disease, we developed a multi-target ligand that both inhibits human butyrylcholinesterase (hBChE), a key enzyme linked to β-amyloid plaque formation, and activates the sigma-1 receptor (S1R), which modulates neuroinflammatory and protective pathways. To this end, a series of isoindolines were designed and synthesized, and their biological activities were evaluated. The most promising compound, 7c, exhibited significant dual activity, achieving nanomolar IC50 values against hBChE and potent S1R activation. Subsequent in vivo studies in an Aβ25-35 mouse model revealed a remarkable improvement in cognitive deficits in both short- and long-term memory at an effective dose of 0.01 mg/kg in WT Swiss-OF1 mice. This dose is 10-fold lower compared to single-target compounds 7a and 7b of this isoindoline series. The lack of neuroprotective effects in BChE knock-out (KO) mice confirmed the involvement of BChE inhibition in the pharmacological effects of compound 7c in WT mice. Further combinatorial studies employing a two-drug combination demonstrated synergy in the neuroprotective effect of addressing the two targets.
Additional Links: PMID-41547241
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@article {pmid41547241,
year = {2025},
author = {Reichau, K and Crouzier, L and Gehrig, T and Flake, A and Schaller, E and Meunier, J and Bertrand-Gaday, C and Chatonnet, A and Zvejniece, L and Sotriffer, C and Maurice, T and Decker, M},
title = {Targeting neuroinflammation by activation of the sigma-1 receptor (S1R) and inhibition of butyrylcholinesterase (hBChE) leads to highly potent anti-amnesic compounds in an Alzheimer's disease mouse model.},
journal = {European journal of medicinal chemistry},
volume = {305},
number = {},
pages = {118486},
doi = {10.1016/j.ejmech.2025.118486},
pmid = {41547241},
issn = {1768-3254},
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder for which no effective preventative or curative treatment has yet been identified. Due to the multifactorial nature and complex pathophysiology of the disease, we developed a multi-target ligand that both inhibits human butyrylcholinesterase (hBChE), a key enzyme linked to β-amyloid plaque formation, and activates the sigma-1 receptor (S1R), which modulates neuroinflammatory and protective pathways. To this end, a series of isoindolines were designed and synthesized, and their biological activities were evaluated. The most promising compound, 7c, exhibited significant dual activity, achieving nanomolar IC50 values against hBChE and potent S1R activation. Subsequent in vivo studies in an Aβ25-35 mouse model revealed a remarkable improvement in cognitive deficits in both short- and long-term memory at an effective dose of 0.01 mg/kg in WT Swiss-OF1 mice. This dose is 10-fold lower compared to single-target compounds 7a and 7b of this isoindoline series. The lack of neuroprotective effects in BChE knock-out (KO) mice confirmed the involvement of BChE inhibition in the pharmacological effects of compound 7c in WT mice. Further combinatorial studies employing a two-drug combination demonstrated synergy in the neuroprotective effect of addressing the two targets.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-17
Exosome-derived microRNAs from stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED): Emerging therapeutics for neurodegenerative disorders.
Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie, 195:119001 pii:S0753-3322(26)00033-8 [Epub ahead of print].
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) cause progressive damage of brain structures, resulting in a loss of function and, eventually, the patient's death. Current therapeutic strategies are limited to late stages of the disease, culminating in palliative care, while tackling the underlying causes of neurodegeneration could halt or at least slow down the disease at an early stage. In this vein, stem cell transplantation therapies are emerging as a promising alternative, as such as cells can penetrate the central nervous system, engraft, differentiate, and secrete neurotrophic, neuro-regenerative, and neuroprotective factors. Stem cells derived from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) have demonstrated significant regenerative potential in various biological systems and pathological conditions, showing high proliferative capacity and multipotency to differentiate into neuronal cells both in vivo and in vitro, apparently functioning through exosome-derived microRNAs (exos-miRs). Here, we summarize recent reports on specific miRs from SHED's exosomes, which exert diverse regulatory functions counteracting oxidative stress, and provide immunomodulatory and neurotrophic benefits contributing to the treatment of neurodegeneration in NDDs. We discuss clinical and preclinical evidence supporting the potential of SHED cells in the treatment of NDDs, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), spinal cord injury, focal cerebral ischemia, and peripheral nerve damage. We also highlight that the use of SHED in NDDs treatment remains largely underexplored, opening a wide field for further research. We suggest deeper studies on the role of SHED-exos-miRs in NDDs, including their proneurotrophic activity, reduction of genotoxic neuronal stress, and disruption of proinflammatory signaling pathways.
Additional Links: PMID-41546910
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid41546910,
year = {2026},
author = {Elyasi, L and Wężyk, M},
title = {Exosome-derived microRNAs from stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED): Emerging therapeutics for neurodegenerative disorders.},
journal = {Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie},
volume = {195},
number = {},
pages = {119001},
doi = {10.1016/j.biopha.2026.119001},
pmid = {41546910},
issn = {1950-6007},
abstract = {Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) cause progressive damage of brain structures, resulting in a loss of function and, eventually, the patient's death. Current therapeutic strategies are limited to late stages of the disease, culminating in palliative care, while tackling the underlying causes of neurodegeneration could halt or at least slow down the disease at an early stage. In this vein, stem cell transplantation therapies are emerging as a promising alternative, as such as cells can penetrate the central nervous system, engraft, differentiate, and secrete neurotrophic, neuro-regenerative, and neuroprotective factors. Stem cells derived from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) have demonstrated significant regenerative potential in various biological systems and pathological conditions, showing high proliferative capacity and multipotency to differentiate into neuronal cells both in vivo and in vitro, apparently functioning through exosome-derived microRNAs (exos-miRs). Here, we summarize recent reports on specific miRs from SHED's exosomes, which exert diverse regulatory functions counteracting oxidative stress, and provide immunomodulatory and neurotrophic benefits contributing to the treatment of neurodegeneration in NDDs. We discuss clinical and preclinical evidence supporting the potential of SHED cells in the treatment of NDDs, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), spinal cord injury, focal cerebral ischemia, and peripheral nerve damage. We also highlight that the use of SHED in NDDs treatment remains largely underexplored, opening a wide field for further research. We suggest deeper studies on the role of SHED-exos-miRs in NDDs, including their proneurotrophic activity, reduction of genotoxic neuronal stress, and disruption of proinflammatory signaling pathways.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-17
Sex Differences in Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review of Two Decades of Neuroimaging Research.
The British journal of radiology pii:8428057 [Epub ahead of print].
OBJECTIVES: Given the heterogeneous nature of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and its higher prevalence in females, it is crucial to understand sex-related differences in AD presentation and changes in the brain.
METHODS: : This systematic review investigates sex differences in AD and summarizes key findings from neuroimaging studies over the past two decades to examine how genetics, hormones, and lifestyle factors influence neuroimaging biomarkers and their correlation with cognitive decline and AD progression. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across several databases for human studies from 2004 to 2024 related to AD, biological sex differences, and neuroimaging.
RESULTS: : After a three-step review process, the final extraction included 120 peer-reviewed studies using various neuroimaging modalities, such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), amyloid-beta Positron Emission Tomography (PET), tau-PET, and Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET, to investigate sex as a biological predictor variable in adults with or at risk for AD. Over 90% of the reviewed studies identified clear sex-specific patterns of imaging biomarkers related to cognitive reserve, hormonal changes, APOE-ɛ4 genotype, inflammation, vascular health, and lifestyle factors. Machine learning studies increasingly incorporate sex as a key variable, revealing sex-specific biomarkers and improving model performance in predicting disease status and progression.
CONCLUSIONS: Considering biological sex in AD research is essential for improving diagnostic accuracy, tailoring interventions, and health outcomes.
ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE: This systematic review identifies sex-specific patterns in neuroimaging biomarkers of Alzheimer's Disease, influenced by cognitive reserve, hormones, APOE-ɛ4 genotype, inflammation, vascular health, and lifestyle. Recognizing these differences is crucial for understanding, diagnosis, and treatment efficacy.
Additional Links: PMID-41546373
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid41546373,
year = {2026},
author = {Massoumzadeh, P and Tiemann-Powles, S and Naghashzadeh, M and Rizzo, J and Hu, J and Yaeger, LH and Alkelani, H and Wang, Q and Chen, G and Dolatshahi, M and Joseph-Mathurin, N and Benzinger, TLS},
title = {Sex Differences in Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review of Two Decades of Neuroimaging Research.},
journal = {The British journal of radiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/bjr/tqag011},
pmid = {41546373},
issn = {1748-880X},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Given the heterogeneous nature of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and its higher prevalence in females, it is crucial to understand sex-related differences in AD presentation and changes in the brain.
METHODS: : This systematic review investigates sex differences in AD and summarizes key findings from neuroimaging studies over the past two decades to examine how genetics, hormones, and lifestyle factors influence neuroimaging biomarkers and their correlation with cognitive decline and AD progression. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across several databases for human studies from 2004 to 2024 related to AD, biological sex differences, and neuroimaging.
RESULTS: : After a three-step review process, the final extraction included 120 peer-reviewed studies using various neuroimaging modalities, such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), amyloid-beta Positron Emission Tomography (PET), tau-PET, and Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET, to investigate sex as a biological predictor variable in adults with or at risk for AD. Over 90% of the reviewed studies identified clear sex-specific patterns of imaging biomarkers related to cognitive reserve, hormonal changes, APOE-ɛ4 genotype, inflammation, vascular health, and lifestyle factors. Machine learning studies increasingly incorporate sex as a key variable, revealing sex-specific biomarkers and improving model performance in predicting disease status and progression.
CONCLUSIONS: Considering biological sex in AD research is essential for improving diagnostic accuracy, tailoring interventions, and health outcomes.
ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE: This systematic review identifies sex-specific patterns in neuroimaging biomarkers of Alzheimer's Disease, influenced by cognitive reserve, hormones, APOE-ɛ4 genotype, inflammation, vascular health, and lifestyle. Recognizing these differences is crucial for understanding, diagnosis, and treatment efficacy.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-16
Preparing for the implementation of anti-amyloid therapies in Europe: Assessing real-world eligibility for lecanemab and donanemab in a Swedish memory clinic.
The journal of prevention of Alzheimer's disease, 13(3):100476 pii:S2274-5807(25)00417-0 [Epub ahead of print].
Lecanemab and donanemab are the first anti-Aβ treatments to receive approval in Europe. Eligibility criteria are strict, eg., APOE ε4/4 carriers are excluded. Successful implementation in public healthcare hinges on accurate estimates of eligibility rates in settings which will be the first to roll out the treatments (specialized memory clinics with early disease stages). We applied the appropriate use recommendations (AUR) to assess treatment eligibility in a Swedish tertiary memory clinic where Aβ and APOE assessments are routinely performed. Of the full cohort (N = 410), 26 and 25 patients met the AUR criteria for lecanemab and donanemab, respectively (6 %; partial overlap between the groups). After excluding APOE ε4/4 carriers in line with the European guidelines, only 14 and 13 patients remained eligible (3 %). In clinics with younger populations, a significant percentage of potentially eligible patients are likely to have the APOE ε4/4 genotype. These findings are important to inform the implementation of anti-Aβ treatments.
Additional Links: PMID-41544372
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid41544372,
year = {2026},
author = {Rosenberg, A and Solomon, A and Bonnard, A and Daniilidou, M and Hagman, G and Hall, A and Matton, A and Öhlund-Wistbacka, U and Westman, E and Kivipelto, M},
title = {Preparing for the implementation of anti-amyloid therapies in Europe: Assessing real-world eligibility for lecanemab and donanemab in a Swedish memory clinic.},
journal = {The journal of prevention of Alzheimer's disease},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {100476},
doi = {10.1016/j.tjpad.2025.100476},
pmid = {41544372},
issn = {2426-0266},
abstract = {Lecanemab and donanemab are the first anti-Aβ treatments to receive approval in Europe. Eligibility criteria are strict, eg., APOE ε4/4 carriers are excluded. Successful implementation in public healthcare hinges on accurate estimates of eligibility rates in settings which will be the first to roll out the treatments (specialized memory clinics with early disease stages). We applied the appropriate use recommendations (AUR) to assess treatment eligibility in a Swedish tertiary memory clinic where Aβ and APOE assessments are routinely performed. Of the full cohort (N = 410), 26 and 25 patients met the AUR criteria for lecanemab and donanemab, respectively (6 %; partial overlap between the groups). After excluding APOE ε4/4 carriers in line with the European guidelines, only 14 and 13 patients remained eligible (3 %). In clinics with younger populations, a significant percentage of potentially eligible patients are likely to have the APOE ε4/4 genotype. These findings are important to inform the implementation of anti-Aβ treatments.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-16
Bidirectional relationship between the biofilm of Porphyromonas gingivalis and the amyloid-beta peptide.
Microbiology spectrum [Epub ahead of print].
UNLABELLED: Periodontitis and Porphyromonas gingivalis infections are significant risk factors for the onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Despite the reliance of P. gingivalis on its biofilm for its survival and virulence, the impact of the extracellular matrix on AD's neuropathological hallmarks has never been examined. In this study, we report a bidirectional relationship between the amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptide, which plays a central role in AD, and the biofilm of P. gingivalis. Using multiple fluorescent markers for biofilm components, we observed that Aβ1-40 inhibited biofilm formation while Aβ1-42 increased extracellular matrix production. Also, using thioflavin T staining and atomic force microscopy, we observed co-aggregation of the biofilm and monomeric Aβ1-40, resulting in faster aggregation and significant changes in aggregate structure. Our findings propose mechanistic explanations for the role of P. gingivalis as a risk factor for AD and offer potential mechanisms for microbial involvement in AD etiology.
IMPORTANCE: While the etiology of Alzheimer's disease has been studied extensively for the past 50 years, its exact causes remain unknown. Our current understanding is that the accumulation of multiple genetic and environmental risk factors would lead to the onset of the disease. Porphyromonas gingivalis is a bacterium that produces biofilm and elicits periodontitis, a chronic infection of the gums that constitutes a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. While studies have looked at the effects of P. gingivalis in triggering Alzheimer's symptoms in animal models, none have explored the impact of the biofilm, which is essential in this bacterium. Our study seeks to bridge that gap by demonstrating a bidirectional relationship between P. gingivalis biofilm and amyloid beta, one of the brain lesions involved in Alzheimer's disease. By understanding the risk factors involved in Alzheimer's disease and their impact, we aim to provide valuable insights on prevention and treatment.
Additional Links: PMID-41543510
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid41543510,
year = {2026},
author = {Dumoulin, D and Ghrayeb, M and Côté, S and Garneau, D and Chai, L and Frost, EH and Fülöp, T and Beauregard, PB},
title = {Bidirectional relationship between the biofilm of Porphyromonas gingivalis and the amyloid-beta peptide.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0198125},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.01981-25},
pmid = {41543510},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Periodontitis and Porphyromonas gingivalis infections are significant risk factors for the onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Despite the reliance of P. gingivalis on its biofilm for its survival and virulence, the impact of the extracellular matrix on AD's neuropathological hallmarks has never been examined. In this study, we report a bidirectional relationship between the amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptide, which plays a central role in AD, and the biofilm of P. gingivalis. Using multiple fluorescent markers for biofilm components, we observed that Aβ1-40 inhibited biofilm formation while Aβ1-42 increased extracellular matrix production. Also, using thioflavin T staining and atomic force microscopy, we observed co-aggregation of the biofilm and monomeric Aβ1-40, resulting in faster aggregation and significant changes in aggregate structure. Our findings propose mechanistic explanations for the role of P. gingivalis as a risk factor for AD and offer potential mechanisms for microbial involvement in AD etiology.
IMPORTANCE: While the etiology of Alzheimer's disease has been studied extensively for the past 50 years, its exact causes remain unknown. Our current understanding is that the accumulation of multiple genetic and environmental risk factors would lead to the onset of the disease. Porphyromonas gingivalis is a bacterium that produces biofilm and elicits periodontitis, a chronic infection of the gums that constitutes a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. While studies have looked at the effects of P. gingivalis in triggering Alzheimer's symptoms in animal models, none have explored the impact of the biofilm, which is essential in this bacterium. Our study seeks to bridge that gap by demonstrating a bidirectional relationship between P. gingivalis biofilm and amyloid beta, one of the brain lesions involved in Alzheimer's disease. By understanding the risk factors involved in Alzheimer's disease and their impact, we aim to provide valuable insights on prevention and treatment.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-16
CmpDate: 2026-01-16
Brain Amyloid Plaque Levels Affect Clinical Progression in Alzheimer Disease: Assessment of Amyloid PET and Change in CDR-SB Utilizing Semi-Mechanistic Model.
CPT: pharmacometrics & systems pharmacology, 15(2):e70173.
Lecanemab is a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody binding with high affinity to protofibrils of amyloid-beta (Aβ) protein. In clinical studies, lecanemab has been shown to reduce amyloid markers in early symptomatic Alzheimer's disease and slow decline on clinical endpoints of cognition and function. Nonlinear mixed-effects modeling assessed the correlation between amyloid PET and change in CDR-SB using data from lecanemab phase 2 study (Study 201) and phase 3 study (Study 301; Clarity AD). Data from placebo-treated subjects were used to establish a disease-progression model; the effect of amyloid reduction on disease progression was defined using data from lecanemab-treated subjects. CDR-SB scores were used with beta regression to fit a Richard's function parameterized in terms of baseline CDR-SB, intrinsic rate of disease progression, shape, and precision of the beta distribution. Simulations were conducted to evaluate the impact of lecanemab treatment over 4 years. Baseline CDR-SB was predicted by diagnosis and baseline mini-mental state examination (BMMSE) score. Intrinsic rate of disease progression was predicted by amyloid PET and BMMSE. Amyloid PET was a better predictor of drug effect than lecanemab exposure, demonstrating amyloid reduction as a surrogate marker of efficacy. Simulations projected the difference in CDR-SB between lecanemab and placebo treated subjects continued increasing over 4 years. Patients with low baseline amyloid and less severe disease were projected to have slower disease progression and better outcomes with lecanemab treatment.
Additional Links: PMID-41543367
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@article {pmid41543367,
year = {2026},
author = {Bhagunde, P and Penner, N and Willis, BA and Bell, R and Charil, A and Irizarry, MC and Hersch, S and Reyderman, L},
title = {Brain Amyloid Plaque Levels Affect Clinical Progression in Alzheimer Disease: Assessment of Amyloid PET and Change in CDR-SB Utilizing Semi-Mechanistic Model.},
journal = {CPT: pharmacometrics & systems pharmacology},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {e70173},
doi = {10.1002/psp4.70173},
pmid = {41543367},
issn = {2163-8306},
mesh = {Humans ; *Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/diagnostic imaging/metabolism ; Positron-Emission Tomography ; Disease Progression ; *Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/pharmacology ; *Plaque, Amyloid/drug therapy/diagnostic imaging/metabolism ; Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism ; *Brain/metabolism/diagnostic imaging/drug effects ; Male ; Aged ; Female ; Double-Blind Method ; Models, Biological ; },
abstract = {Lecanemab is a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody binding with high affinity to protofibrils of amyloid-beta (Aβ) protein. In clinical studies, lecanemab has been shown to reduce amyloid markers in early symptomatic Alzheimer's disease and slow decline on clinical endpoints of cognition and function. Nonlinear mixed-effects modeling assessed the correlation between amyloid PET and change in CDR-SB using data from lecanemab phase 2 study (Study 201) and phase 3 study (Study 301; Clarity AD). Data from placebo-treated subjects were used to establish a disease-progression model; the effect of amyloid reduction on disease progression was defined using data from lecanemab-treated subjects. CDR-SB scores were used with beta regression to fit a Richard's function parameterized in terms of baseline CDR-SB, intrinsic rate of disease progression, shape, and precision of the beta distribution. Simulations were conducted to evaluate the impact of lecanemab treatment over 4 years. Baseline CDR-SB was predicted by diagnosis and baseline mini-mental state examination (BMMSE) score. Intrinsic rate of disease progression was predicted by amyloid PET and BMMSE. Amyloid PET was a better predictor of drug effect than lecanemab exposure, demonstrating amyloid reduction as a surrogate marker of efficacy. Simulations projected the difference in CDR-SB between lecanemab and placebo treated subjects continued increasing over 4 years. Patients with low baseline amyloid and less severe disease were projected to have slower disease progression and better outcomes with lecanemab treatment.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Humans
*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/diagnostic imaging/metabolism
Positron-Emission Tomography
Disease Progression
*Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/pharmacology
*Plaque, Amyloid/drug therapy/diagnostic imaging/metabolism
Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism
*Brain/metabolism/diagnostic imaging/drug effects
Male
Aged
Female
Double-Blind Method
Models, Biological
RevDate: 2026-01-16
CmpDate: 2026-01-16
Design and synthesis of new phosphazine and triazole derivatives for treatment of Alzheimer's disease: modulating ROS/JNK and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways.
RSC advances, 16(4):3077-3100.
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive cognitive impairment and the accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides. In this study, a novel series of triazole and phosphazine derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for neuroprotective activity in an aluminum chloride (AlCl3)-induced rat model of AD. Among the synthesized compounds, 3a, 6a, and 6c were structurally characterized and selected for in vivo biological evaluation. Behavioral, biochemical, molecular, and histopathological assessments were conducted to determine their efficacy, with Rivastigmine used as a reference drug. Compounds 3a and 6c significantly improved cognitive and memory performance, decreased Aβ1-42 production, and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Furthermore, both compounds inhibited the activation of JNK and Puma, promoted Beclin-1 expression, and activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling, as evidenced by increased expression levels of Wnt7a, β-catenin, LRP6, and FZD4, alongside decreased expression levels of GSK-3β and BACE1. Molecular docking studies supported these findings, revealing strong binding affinities of the active compounds, particularly 3a, to the JNK3 active site. Molecular dynamic simulations were performed on the best docking pose of the most potent compound 3a to confirm the formation of a stable complex with JNK3. Compounds 3a, 6a, and 6c demonstrated favorable pharmacokinetic profiles, with predicted good oral bioavailability, blood-brain barrier permeability, and non-substrate behavior toward P-glycoprotein. They are expected to maintain therapeutic availability in systemic circulation, as indicated by the predicted plasma protein binding below 90%, moderate to high steady-state volume of distribution, and lack of substrate affinity for cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP2C9 and CYP2D6. These results suggest that compounds 3a and 6c may serve as promising multi-target therapeutic candidates for AD by modulating oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways.
Additional Links: PMID-41541199
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41541199,
year = {2026},
author = {Salah, RS and El-Sayed, NF and El-Hussieny, M and Mansour, ST and Othman, M and Fouad, MA and Rashdan, HRM and Ewies, EF and Gharib, HSA and Elsayed, GH},
title = {Design and synthesis of new phosphazine and triazole derivatives for treatment of Alzheimer's disease: modulating ROS/JNK and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways.},
journal = {RSC advances},
volume = {16},
number = {4},
pages = {3077-3100},
pmid = {41541199},
issn = {2046-2069},
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive cognitive impairment and the accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides. In this study, a novel series of triazole and phosphazine derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for neuroprotective activity in an aluminum chloride (AlCl3)-induced rat model of AD. Among the synthesized compounds, 3a, 6a, and 6c were structurally characterized and selected for in vivo biological evaluation. Behavioral, biochemical, molecular, and histopathological assessments were conducted to determine their efficacy, with Rivastigmine used as a reference drug. Compounds 3a and 6c significantly improved cognitive and memory performance, decreased Aβ1-42 production, and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Furthermore, both compounds inhibited the activation of JNK and Puma, promoted Beclin-1 expression, and activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling, as evidenced by increased expression levels of Wnt7a, β-catenin, LRP6, and FZD4, alongside decreased expression levels of GSK-3β and BACE1. Molecular docking studies supported these findings, revealing strong binding affinities of the active compounds, particularly 3a, to the JNK3 active site. Molecular dynamic simulations were performed on the best docking pose of the most potent compound 3a to confirm the formation of a stable complex with JNK3. Compounds 3a, 6a, and 6c demonstrated favorable pharmacokinetic profiles, with predicted good oral bioavailability, blood-brain barrier permeability, and non-substrate behavior toward P-glycoprotein. They are expected to maintain therapeutic availability in systemic circulation, as indicated by the predicted plasma protein binding below 90%, moderate to high steady-state volume of distribution, and lack of substrate affinity for cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP2C9 and CYP2D6. These results suggest that compounds 3a and 6c may serve as promising multi-target therapeutic candidates for AD by modulating oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-16
CmpDate: 2026-01-16
Exploring Adjunctive Novel Therapeutic Approach of KarXT (Xanomeline-Trospium Chloride) for Managing Psychotic Symptoms in Patients With Schizophrenia and Alzheimer's Disease.
Brain and behavior, 16(1):e71182.
BACKGROUND: Acute psychotic symptoms like delusions and hallucinations are of major concern while treating patients with schizophrenia and alzheimer's psychosis, primarily impacting their daily life functioning and quality of life. The traditional antipsychotic medications, commonly prescribed to manage these symptoms, cause significant side effects with limited efficacy, requiring novel therapeutic agents that can overcome this challenge. While there is no definitive cure, symptomatic treatment can help relieve some of the symptoms and improve the quality of life of people with alzheimer's disease (AD).
METHOD: A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, scopus, google scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov was conducted to identify studies on xanomeline-trospium chloride (KarXT) in schizophrenia and AD psychosis. After screening 802 unique records, 39 studies-including preclinical, clinical, and observational investigations-were included in this narrative review. Only English-language publications up to February 2025 were considered.
RESULT: KarXT, with its dual action on the M1 and M4 receptors and mAChR antagonism, greatly helps reduce the severity of the positive and negative symptoms, as it resulted in an 8.4-point greater reduction on the PANSS scale. Side effects were minimal and did not account for the discontinuation of treatment.
CONCLUSION: Psychosis is a common feature of schizophrenia and AD, most often caused by high concentrations of dopamine in the brain, characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking, resulting in markedly reduced quality of life for the patient and associated caregiver. Conventional treatments targeting dopamine receptors produce extrapyramidal symptoms and metabolic side effects, leading to noncompliance with medication. KarXT, with its dual action on M1 and M4 receptors and mAChR antagonism, greatly helps reduce the severity of the positive and negative symptoms. The side effects experienced were minimal and did not account for the discontinuation of treatment.An overview of the mechanism of action, clinical trials, and classical findings of KarXT for the management of psychotic symptoms in patients with schizophrenia and alzheimer's disease.
Additional Links: PMID-41540764
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@article {pmid41540764,
year = {2026},
author = {Kanwal, A and Azeem, B and Nasir, H and Mumtaz, F and Ashraf, N and Amin, MHJ and Kanwal, W and Khan, BW},
title = {Exploring Adjunctive Novel Therapeutic Approach of KarXT (Xanomeline-Trospium Chloride) for Managing Psychotic Symptoms in Patients With Schizophrenia and Alzheimer's Disease.},
journal = {Brain and behavior},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {e71182},
pmid = {41540764},
issn = {2162-3279},
mesh = {Humans ; *Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/complications ; *Schizophrenia/drug therapy/complications ; *Psychotic Disorders/drug therapy ; *Antipsychotic Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Quality of Life ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acute psychotic symptoms like delusions and hallucinations are of major concern while treating patients with schizophrenia and alzheimer's psychosis, primarily impacting their daily life functioning and quality of life. The traditional antipsychotic medications, commonly prescribed to manage these symptoms, cause significant side effects with limited efficacy, requiring novel therapeutic agents that can overcome this challenge. While there is no definitive cure, symptomatic treatment can help relieve some of the symptoms and improve the quality of life of people with alzheimer's disease (AD).
METHOD: A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, scopus, google scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov was conducted to identify studies on xanomeline-trospium chloride (KarXT) in schizophrenia and AD psychosis. After screening 802 unique records, 39 studies-including preclinical, clinical, and observational investigations-were included in this narrative review. Only English-language publications up to February 2025 were considered.
RESULT: KarXT, with its dual action on the M1 and M4 receptors and mAChR antagonism, greatly helps reduce the severity of the positive and negative symptoms, as it resulted in an 8.4-point greater reduction on the PANSS scale. Side effects were minimal and did not account for the discontinuation of treatment.
CONCLUSION: Psychosis is a common feature of schizophrenia and AD, most often caused by high concentrations of dopamine in the brain, characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking, resulting in markedly reduced quality of life for the patient and associated caregiver. Conventional treatments targeting dopamine receptors produce extrapyramidal symptoms and metabolic side effects, leading to noncompliance with medication. KarXT, with its dual action on M1 and M4 receptors and mAChR antagonism, greatly helps reduce the severity of the positive and negative symptoms. The side effects experienced were minimal and did not account for the discontinuation of treatment.An overview of the mechanism of action, clinical trials, and classical findings of KarXT for the management of psychotic symptoms in patients with schizophrenia and alzheimer's disease.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Humans
*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/complications
*Schizophrenia/drug therapy/complications
*Psychotic Disorders/drug therapy
*Antipsychotic Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Quality of Life
RevDate: 2026-01-16
CmpDate: 2026-01-16
[Sulforaphane reduces reactive astrocyte-mediated neuron apoptosis in vitro by inhibiting the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway in Aβ42 oligomer-activated astrocytes].
Nan fang yi ke da xue xue bao = Journal of Southern Medical University, 46(1):191-199.
OBJECTIVES: To explore the effects of sulforaphane (SFN) on Aβ42-activated U87 astrocyte-mediated apoptosis of SH-SY5Y neurons in vitro.
METHODS: U87 cells treated with different concentrations of Aβ42, SFN or both were examined for changes in cell activity, IL-6 and TNF-α mRNA expression, release of IL-6 and TNF-α proteins, and expressions of p-p38, p-p65 and GFAP using CCK-8 assay, RT-qPCR, ELISA and Western blotting. SH-SY5Y neurons were co-cultured with U87 astrocytes treated with Aβ42 alone or in combination with SFN or SB203580 for 24 h, and the changes in Bax protein expression levels and viability of SH-SY5Y cells were examined. The effects of Aβ42, SFN, and their combination were also observed in astrocytes isolated from mouse brain tissues, and the indirect effects of astrocyte treatmentt on viability of the co-cultured primary neurons were assessed.
RESULTS: The viability of U87 astrocytes increased significantly following treatment with 1.25 μmol/L Aβ42 but decreased after Aβ42 treatment above 5 μmol/L. SFN treatments for 24 h below 5 μmol/L did not significantly affect U87 cell viability. Aβ42 treatment significantly increased protein expressions of p-p38, p-p65 and GFAP, mRNA expression levels of IL-6 and TNF-α, and IL-6 and TNF-α levels in culture supernatant of U87 cells. SH-SY5Y cells co-cultured with Aβ42-treated U87 cells showed significantly increased protein expressions of Bax, and exhibited lowered viability following co-culture with 5 μmol/L Aβ42-treated U87 cells. The isolated mouse astrocytes showed lowered viability following Aβ42 treatment above 10 μmol/L, but SFN treatment below 5 μmol/L for 24 did not obviously affect the cell viability. The primary neurons co-cultured with Aβ42-treated mouse astrocytes showed significantly lower cell viability than those co-cultured with the astrocytes treated with Aβ+SFN or Aβ+SB203580.
CONCLUSIONS: SFN attenuates astrocyte-mediated neuron apoptosis by inhibiting the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway in Aβ42 oligomer-activated astrocytes.
Additional Links: PMID-41540706
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41540706,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, S and Huang, T and Yang, C and Chen, J and Lü, T and Zhang, J},
title = {[Sulforaphane reduces reactive astrocyte-mediated neuron apoptosis in vitro by inhibiting the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway in Aβ42 oligomer-activated astrocytes].},
journal = {Nan fang yi ke da xue xue bao = Journal of Southern Medical University},
volume = {46},
number = {1},
pages = {191-199},
pmid = {41540706},
issn = {1673-4254},
mesh = {*Isothiocyanates/pharmacology ; *Astrocytes/cytology/drug effects/metabolism ; Sulfoxides ; *Apoptosis/drug effects ; *Amyloid beta-Peptides/pharmacology ; *Neurons/cytology/drug effects/metabolism ; Signal Transduction/drug effects ; Humans ; Animals ; NF-kappa B/metabolism ; Mice ; Coculture Techniques ; Peptide Fragments/pharmacology ; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/metabolism ; Cell Line, Tumor ; Interleukin-6/metabolism ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To explore the effects of sulforaphane (SFN) on Aβ42-activated U87 astrocyte-mediated apoptosis of SH-SY5Y neurons in vitro.
METHODS: U87 cells treated with different concentrations of Aβ42, SFN or both were examined for changes in cell activity, IL-6 and TNF-α mRNA expression, release of IL-6 and TNF-α proteins, and expressions of p-p38, p-p65 and GFAP using CCK-8 assay, RT-qPCR, ELISA and Western blotting. SH-SY5Y neurons were co-cultured with U87 astrocytes treated with Aβ42 alone or in combination with SFN or SB203580 for 24 h, and the changes in Bax protein expression levels and viability of SH-SY5Y cells were examined. The effects of Aβ42, SFN, and their combination were also observed in astrocytes isolated from mouse brain tissues, and the indirect effects of astrocyte treatmentt on viability of the co-cultured primary neurons were assessed.
RESULTS: The viability of U87 astrocytes increased significantly following treatment with 1.25 μmol/L Aβ42 but decreased after Aβ42 treatment above 5 μmol/L. SFN treatments for 24 h below 5 μmol/L did not significantly affect U87 cell viability. Aβ42 treatment significantly increased protein expressions of p-p38, p-p65 and GFAP, mRNA expression levels of IL-6 and TNF-α, and IL-6 and TNF-α levels in culture supernatant of U87 cells. SH-SY5Y cells co-cultured with Aβ42-treated U87 cells showed significantly increased protein expressions of Bax, and exhibited lowered viability following co-culture with 5 μmol/L Aβ42-treated U87 cells. The isolated mouse astrocytes showed lowered viability following Aβ42 treatment above 10 μmol/L, but SFN treatment below 5 μmol/L for 24 did not obviously affect the cell viability. The primary neurons co-cultured with Aβ42-treated mouse astrocytes showed significantly lower cell viability than those co-cultured with the astrocytes treated with Aβ+SFN or Aβ+SB203580.
CONCLUSIONS: SFN attenuates astrocyte-mediated neuron apoptosis by inhibiting the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway in Aβ42 oligomer-activated astrocytes.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Isothiocyanates/pharmacology
*Astrocytes/cytology/drug effects/metabolism
Sulfoxides
*Apoptosis/drug effects
*Amyloid beta-Peptides/pharmacology
*Neurons/cytology/drug effects/metabolism
Signal Transduction/drug effects
Humans
Animals
NF-kappa B/metabolism
Mice
Coculture Techniques
Peptide Fragments/pharmacology
Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/metabolism
Cell Line, Tumor
Interleukin-6/metabolism
RevDate: 2026-01-16
Betanin: A Natural Phytomolecule for the Intervention of Neurological Disorders.
Current topics in medicinal chemistry pii:CTMC-EPUB-152418 [Epub ahead of print].
Betanin is widely consumed around the globe either as beetroot directly or as one of the key ingredients in food and pharmaceutical preparations. The health benefits of Betanin, including the treatment of numerous neurological diseases and brain cancer, have been reported extensively. Betanin has gained global attention due to notable anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer activities. Recently, there has been growing attention on the usage of Betanin to prevent or delay the onset of neurodegenerative disorders. This review recapitulates available information from various recent pre-clinical studies on Betanin in several neurological diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, aging, brain stroke, anxiety, and neuropathic pain. Betanin exhibits remarkable neuroprotective effects via activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway, inhibition of the production and expression of pro-inflammatory mediators and reactive oxygen species, along with suppression of the NF-κB signaling pathway. Taking betanin as part of a healthy diet may aid in the management of various brain-related disorders. This review focuses on the neurological conditions for which betanin has shown therapeutic potential, highlighting its beneficial properties, cellular and molecular mechanisms of action, and its relevance in light of current research. Based on the available evidence, betanin could be considered a promising candidate and lead compound in the drug development process for the prevention, treatment, and management of several neurological disorders in the future.
Additional Links: PMID-41540543
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41540543,
year = {2026},
author = {Singh, NK and Kumar, Y and Chandra, M and PadmaPriya, G and Sharma, Y and Mishra, S},
title = {Betanin: A Natural Phytomolecule for the Intervention of Neurological Disorders.},
journal = {Current topics in medicinal chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.2174/0115680266398457251014040532},
pmid = {41540543},
issn = {1873-4294},
abstract = {Betanin is widely consumed around the globe either as beetroot directly or as one of the key ingredients in food and pharmaceutical preparations. The health benefits of Betanin, including the treatment of numerous neurological diseases and brain cancer, have been reported extensively. Betanin has gained global attention due to notable anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer activities. Recently, there has been growing attention on the usage of Betanin to prevent or delay the onset of neurodegenerative disorders. This review recapitulates available information from various recent pre-clinical studies on Betanin in several neurological diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, aging, brain stroke, anxiety, and neuropathic pain. Betanin exhibits remarkable neuroprotective effects via activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway, inhibition of the production and expression of pro-inflammatory mediators and reactive oxygen species, along with suppression of the NF-κB signaling pathway. Taking betanin as part of a healthy diet may aid in the management of various brain-related disorders. This review focuses on the neurological conditions for which betanin has shown therapeutic potential, highlighting its beneficial properties, cellular and molecular mechanisms of action, and its relevance in light of current research. Based on the available evidence, betanin could be considered a promising candidate and lead compound in the drug development process for the prevention, treatment, and management of several neurological disorders in the future.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-16
CmpDate: 2026-01-16
Electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve improves amyloid pathology in delirium superimposed on dementia.
Bioelectronic medicine, 12(1):2.
BACKGROUND: Delirium and delirium superimposed on dementia (DSD) are common complications affecting patients suffering from ongoing neurodegenerative pathologies. Peripheral surgical trauma can trigger neuroinflammation and ensuing DSD via mechanisms that remain poorly understood. Given the multifactorial therapeutic effects of neuromodulation, including vagal nerve stimulation, we have tested a minimally invasive approach to combat DSD following orthopedic surgery.
METHODS: We performed orthopedic surgery on 5xFAD and CVN-AD mice and tested the efficacy of minimally invasive percutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (pVNS). We applied immunohistochemical, biochemical, and behavioral assays to evaluate the impact of surgery on postoperative delirium on DSD pathology in Alzheimer’s disease-like mice. To confirm the role of systemic factors in neuroinflammation and amyloid-β dyshomeostasis, we conducted experiments using interleukin-6 (IL-6), a cytokine commonly upregulated in postoperative delirium and in vitro co-culture assays for validation.
RESULTS: In AD-like mice surgery induced acute changes in amyloid-β; perioperative treatment with pVNS effectively reduced amyloid-β load, plaque sphericity, and neuronal loss. The rescue of these pathological hallmarks led to improved delirium-like behavior, as demonstrated by the 5-choice serial reaction time task on postoperative days 1 and 2. pVNS improved microglial morphology, particularly near amyloid-β plaques. Acute isolation of microglial cells from 5xFAD mice after surgery indicated that pVNS partially enhanced key Disease-Associated Microglia (DAM) markers. The contribution of pro-inflammatory cytokines to amyloid-β aggregation was validated using an in vitro transwell culture model following Cytomix exposure, which also caused endothelial barrier disruption. Finally, we isolated IL-6 as a well-established biomarker of postoperative delirium and described its role in DSD pathology following systemic administration.
CONCLUSION: These findings establish a role for neuromodulation after pVNS in regulating perioperative immunity and advance a new paradigm for perioperative interventions in patients at risk for DSD.
GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: [Image: see text]
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s42234-025-00194-5.
Additional Links: PMID-41540503
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41540503,
year = {2026},
author = {Song, C and Wu, PY and Huffman, WJ and David-Bercholz, J and Bedolla, A and Velagapudi, R and Njoroge, A and Rodriguiz, RM and Wetsel, WC and Rendina, D and Bilbo, SD and Chiang, W and Ogu, JC and Gelbard, HA and Yang, T and Grill, WM and Terrando, N},
title = {Electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve improves amyloid pathology in delirium superimposed on dementia.},
journal = {Bioelectronic medicine},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {2},
pmid = {41540503},
issn = {2332-8886},
support = {AARF-24-1313412/ALZ/Alzheimer's Association/United States ; 2019-AARG-643070/ALZ/Alzheimer's Association/United States ; R01-AG057525, R01-AG083979A1, RF1-AG079138, R21-AG055877/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Delirium and delirium superimposed on dementia (DSD) are common complications affecting patients suffering from ongoing neurodegenerative pathologies. Peripheral surgical trauma can trigger neuroinflammation and ensuing DSD via mechanisms that remain poorly understood. Given the multifactorial therapeutic effects of neuromodulation, including vagal nerve stimulation, we have tested a minimally invasive approach to combat DSD following orthopedic surgery.
METHODS: We performed orthopedic surgery on 5xFAD and CVN-AD mice and tested the efficacy of minimally invasive percutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (pVNS). We applied immunohistochemical, biochemical, and behavioral assays to evaluate the impact of surgery on postoperative delirium on DSD pathology in Alzheimer’s disease-like mice. To confirm the role of systemic factors in neuroinflammation and amyloid-β dyshomeostasis, we conducted experiments using interleukin-6 (IL-6), a cytokine commonly upregulated in postoperative delirium and in vitro co-culture assays for validation.
RESULTS: In AD-like mice surgery induced acute changes in amyloid-β; perioperative treatment with pVNS effectively reduced amyloid-β load, plaque sphericity, and neuronal loss. The rescue of these pathological hallmarks led to improved delirium-like behavior, as demonstrated by the 5-choice serial reaction time task on postoperative days 1 and 2. pVNS improved microglial morphology, particularly near amyloid-β plaques. Acute isolation of microglial cells from 5xFAD mice after surgery indicated that pVNS partially enhanced key Disease-Associated Microglia (DAM) markers. The contribution of pro-inflammatory cytokines to amyloid-β aggregation was validated using an in vitro transwell culture model following Cytomix exposure, which also caused endothelial barrier disruption. Finally, we isolated IL-6 as a well-established biomarker of postoperative delirium and described its role in DSD pathology following systemic administration.
CONCLUSION: These findings establish a role for neuromodulation after pVNS in regulating perioperative immunity and advance a new paradigm for perioperative interventions in patients at risk for DSD.
GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: [Image: see text]
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s42234-025-00194-5.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-16
Investigating the molecular mechanisms of glutamine metabolism and mitochondria-related biomarkers in Alzheimer's disease through transcriptomics and experimental validation.
European journal of medical research pii:10.1186/s40001-025-03747-1 [Epub ahead of print].
BACKGROUND: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder. This study aims to identify biomarkers associated with glutamine metabolism-related genes (GRGs) and mitochondria-related genes (MRGs) in AD through bioinformatics analysis, offering insights for prevention and treatment strategies.
METHODS: Candidate genes were first picked out through differential gene expression profiling, construction of weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and interaction network analysis. Biomarkers were then filtered using machine learning algorithms. For these biomarkers, expression verification and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were carried out. These biomarkers underwent GeneMANIA analysis, subcellular and chromosomal localization, enrichment analysis, along with immune infiltration assessment, establishment of a multi-layered molecular regulatory network, and prediction of potential therapeutic agents by leveraging drug-gene interaction databases. Finally, the consistency was validated by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR).
RESULTS: Initially, 10 candidate genes were identified through bioinformatics analysis. Machine learning, expression validation, and ROC analysis pinpointed SNCA and PPP2R1A as biomarkers (AUC > 0.7). These biomarkers were associated with 20 functionally similar genes and were active in the nucleus and cytoplasm. SNCA was located on chromosome 4, and PPP2R1A on chromosome 19. Enrichment analysis unveiled their involvement in pathways such as olfactory transduction. Additionally, these biomarkers influenced immune cells; for instance, there was a positive correlation between PPP2R1A and type 2 T helper cells (cor = 0.66, P = 1.03 × 10[-5]). A molecular regulatory network demonstrated that these biomarkers were regulated by 134 miRNAs, and 72 potential drugs targeting these biomarkers were identified. RT-qPCR confirmed the expression consistency with bioinformatics results.
CONCLUSION: This study ultimately identified SNCA and PPP2R1A as biomarkers for AD, providing a theoretical foundation and potential targets for the diagnosis and treatment of AD.
Additional Links: PMID-41540481
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@article {pmid41540481,
year = {2026},
author = {Si, X and Tian, S and Chen, Y and Li, X and Wu, G and Yao, Y and Wang, M},
title = {Investigating the molecular mechanisms of glutamine metabolism and mitochondria-related biomarkers in Alzheimer's disease through transcriptomics and experimental validation.},
journal = {European journal of medical research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s40001-025-03747-1},
pmid = {41540481},
issn = {2047-783X},
support = {22JR5RA994//Natural Science Foundation of Gansu Province, China/ ; CY2022-MS-A07//Cuiying Scientific and Technological Innovation Program of Lanzhou University Second Hospital, China/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder. This study aims to identify biomarkers associated with glutamine metabolism-related genes (GRGs) and mitochondria-related genes (MRGs) in AD through bioinformatics analysis, offering insights for prevention and treatment strategies.
METHODS: Candidate genes were first picked out through differential gene expression profiling, construction of weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and interaction network analysis. Biomarkers were then filtered using machine learning algorithms. For these biomarkers, expression verification and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were carried out. These biomarkers underwent GeneMANIA analysis, subcellular and chromosomal localization, enrichment analysis, along with immune infiltration assessment, establishment of a multi-layered molecular regulatory network, and prediction of potential therapeutic agents by leveraging drug-gene interaction databases. Finally, the consistency was validated by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR).
RESULTS: Initially, 10 candidate genes were identified through bioinformatics analysis. Machine learning, expression validation, and ROC analysis pinpointed SNCA and PPP2R1A as biomarkers (AUC > 0.7). These biomarkers were associated with 20 functionally similar genes and were active in the nucleus and cytoplasm. SNCA was located on chromosome 4, and PPP2R1A on chromosome 19. Enrichment analysis unveiled their involvement in pathways such as olfactory transduction. Additionally, these biomarkers influenced immune cells; for instance, there was a positive correlation between PPP2R1A and type 2 T helper cells (cor = 0.66, P = 1.03 × 10[-5]). A molecular regulatory network demonstrated that these biomarkers were regulated by 134 miRNAs, and 72 potential drugs targeting these biomarkers were identified. RT-qPCR confirmed the expression consistency with bioinformatics results.
CONCLUSION: This study ultimately identified SNCA and PPP2R1A as biomarkers for AD, providing a theoretical foundation and potential targets for the diagnosis and treatment of AD.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-16
hUC-MSC-derived exosomes ameliorate Alzheimer's disease pathology through lncRNA-9969-mediated multi-target protection involving neuronal autophagy and microglial modulation.
Alzheimer's research & therapy pii:10.1186/s13195-026-01954-4 [Epub ahead of print].
BACKGROUND: Alzheimer's disease is characterized by intertwined pathologies including neuroinflammation, driven by microglial dysfunction, and metabolic disturbances such as lipid dyshomeostasis. Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-Exos) hold therapeutic promise, Still, it is unknown whether they can simultaneously address these co-occurring impairments via specific molecular cargos, such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs).
METHODS: Transcriptome sequencing of exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) revealed high expression of the long noncoding RNA ENST00000629969 (hereinafter referred to as lncRNA-9969). We isolated exosomes from hUC-MSCs (WT-Exo) and established human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells stably knocked down for lncRNA-9969 via siRNA, from which corresponding exosomes (KD-Exo) were isolated. Cross-species analysis identified the mouse homolog of lncRNA-9969 as ENSMUST00000200021 (hereinafter referred to as lncRNA-0021). Cellular experiments employed an Aβ₂₅₋₃₅-induced SH-SY5Y cell model to evaluate the protective effects of exosomes. In animal experiments, 6-month-old APP/PS1 mice received biweekly tail vein injections of WT-Exo or KD-Exo for 4 weeks. Phenotypic and mechanistic analyses were subsequently conducted using the Morris water maze, Western blot, immunofluorescence, qPCR, and transmission electron microscopy.
RESULTS: In Aβ-injured SH-SY5Y cells, WT-Exo significantly attenuated cellular damage and promoted Aβ clearance, whereas the protective effect of KD-Exo was markedly reduced. In APP/PS1 mice, WT-Exo treatment significantly improved spatial memory deficits and upregulated hippocampal expression of synaptic proteins synaptophysin (Syn) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Molecular mechanism studies demonstrated that lncRNA-0021 directly binds mmu-miR-6361. Through this ceRNA mechanism, exosome-delivered lncRNA activated the mTOR/p70S6K autophagy pathway, regulated lipid metabolism-related genes, promoted microglial polarization toward the protective M2 phenotype, and suppressed pyroptosis. These beneficial changes were not observed in the KD-Exo-treated group.
CONCLUSIONS: hUC-MSC-derived exosomes exert neuroprotective effects by delivering functional lncRNA-9969. Its highly conserved homolog in mice, lncRNA-0021, achieves coordinated multi-target regulation of neuroinflammation, pyroptosis, and metabolic disturbances by sequestering miR-6361 and activating downstream signaling pathways. This study elucidates the central role of exosomal lncRNAs in AD pathology and provides new insights for developing RNA-based multi-target therapeutic strategies.
Additional Links: PMID-41540476
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41540476,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, Y and Zhang, F and Yin, H and Sun, Y and Wang, Y and Ren, Z and Jiang, J and Zeng, L},
title = {hUC-MSC-derived exosomes ameliorate Alzheimer's disease pathology through lncRNA-9969-mediated multi-target protection involving neuronal autophagy and microglial modulation.},
journal = {Alzheimer's research & therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s13195-026-01954-4},
pmid = {41540476},
issn = {1758-9193},
support = {YDZJ202301ZYTS536//the Science and Technology Department of Jilin Province/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Alzheimer's disease is characterized by intertwined pathologies including neuroinflammation, driven by microglial dysfunction, and metabolic disturbances such as lipid dyshomeostasis. Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-Exos) hold therapeutic promise, Still, it is unknown whether they can simultaneously address these co-occurring impairments via specific molecular cargos, such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs).
METHODS: Transcriptome sequencing of exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) revealed high expression of the long noncoding RNA ENST00000629969 (hereinafter referred to as lncRNA-9969). We isolated exosomes from hUC-MSCs (WT-Exo) and established human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells stably knocked down for lncRNA-9969 via siRNA, from which corresponding exosomes (KD-Exo) were isolated. Cross-species analysis identified the mouse homolog of lncRNA-9969 as ENSMUST00000200021 (hereinafter referred to as lncRNA-0021). Cellular experiments employed an Aβ₂₅₋₃₅-induced SH-SY5Y cell model to evaluate the protective effects of exosomes. In animal experiments, 6-month-old APP/PS1 mice received biweekly tail vein injections of WT-Exo or KD-Exo for 4 weeks. Phenotypic and mechanistic analyses were subsequently conducted using the Morris water maze, Western blot, immunofluorescence, qPCR, and transmission electron microscopy.
RESULTS: In Aβ-injured SH-SY5Y cells, WT-Exo significantly attenuated cellular damage and promoted Aβ clearance, whereas the protective effect of KD-Exo was markedly reduced. In APP/PS1 mice, WT-Exo treatment significantly improved spatial memory deficits and upregulated hippocampal expression of synaptic proteins synaptophysin (Syn) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Molecular mechanism studies demonstrated that lncRNA-0021 directly binds mmu-miR-6361. Through this ceRNA mechanism, exosome-delivered lncRNA activated the mTOR/p70S6K autophagy pathway, regulated lipid metabolism-related genes, promoted microglial polarization toward the protective M2 phenotype, and suppressed pyroptosis. These beneficial changes were not observed in the KD-Exo-treated group.
CONCLUSIONS: hUC-MSC-derived exosomes exert neuroprotective effects by delivering functional lncRNA-9969. Its highly conserved homolog in mice, lncRNA-0021, achieves coordinated multi-target regulation of neuroinflammation, pyroptosis, and metabolic disturbances by sequestering miR-6361 and activating downstream signaling pathways. This study elucidates the central role of exosomal lncRNAs in AD pathology and provides new insights for developing RNA-based multi-target therapeutic strategies.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-16
CmpDate: 2026-01-16
Challenges and Opportunities of Drug Delivery for Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease.
AAPS PharmSciTech, 27(1):78.
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive deterioration in cognitive functions. It represents a global health concern with increasing prevalence and devastating outcomes for the quality of life that could ultimately lead to death. AD is associated with deposition of β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques and intracellular buildup of tau proteins forming neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), which are the main characteristics for AD brain tissues. Approved AD therapy is based mainly on symptomatic relief, and conventional medicaments often fail due to either low bioavailability, limited solubility, or failure to cross blood-brain barrier (BBB). The complexity in AD pathophysiology opens windows for many therapeutic options. So, lecanemab was recently approved by FDA as the first disease-modifying therapy. However, drug delivery to the brain remains challenging due to the nature of BBB. Hence, more extensive research is essential to develop disease-modifying therapies and also to find drug delivery strategies to ensure simplified administration and successful brain delivery. This review article summarizes AD pathogenesis with the corresponding treatment targets. It emphasizes innovative drug delivery strategies and novel formulation approaches to deliver medicines across BBB. The use of recent advancements in drug delivery to deliver medicaments across BBB are highlighted, with focus given to novel drug delivery systems and formulation of nanoparticles for brain targeting. The use of nutraceuticals, gene therapy, and stem cell therapy are is covered.
Additional Links: PMID-41540303
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@article {pmid41540303,
year = {2026},
author = {Abd El-Fattah, MA},
title = {Challenges and Opportunities of Drug Delivery for Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease.},
journal = {AAPS PharmSciTech},
volume = {27},
number = {1},
pages = {78},
pmid = {41540303},
issn = {1530-9932},
mesh = {*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/metabolism ; Humans ; *Drug Delivery Systems/methods ; Blood-Brain Barrier/metabolism/drug effects ; Animals ; Nanoparticles/chemistry ; Brain/metabolism/drug effects ; Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive deterioration in cognitive functions. It represents a global health concern with increasing prevalence and devastating outcomes for the quality of life that could ultimately lead to death. AD is associated with deposition of β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques and intracellular buildup of tau proteins forming neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), which are the main characteristics for AD brain tissues. Approved AD therapy is based mainly on symptomatic relief, and conventional medicaments often fail due to either low bioavailability, limited solubility, or failure to cross blood-brain barrier (BBB). The complexity in AD pathophysiology opens windows for many therapeutic options. So, lecanemab was recently approved by FDA as the first disease-modifying therapy. However, drug delivery to the brain remains challenging due to the nature of BBB. Hence, more extensive research is essential to develop disease-modifying therapies and also to find drug delivery strategies to ensure simplified administration and successful brain delivery. This review article summarizes AD pathogenesis with the corresponding treatment targets. It emphasizes innovative drug delivery strategies and novel formulation approaches to deliver medicines across BBB. The use of recent advancements in drug delivery to deliver medicaments across BBB are highlighted, with focus given to novel drug delivery systems and formulation of nanoparticles for brain targeting. The use of nutraceuticals, gene therapy, and stem cell therapy are is covered.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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hide MeSH Terms
*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/metabolism
Humans
*Drug Delivery Systems/methods
Blood-Brain Barrier/metabolism/drug effects
Animals
Nanoparticles/chemistry
Brain/metabolism/drug effects
Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism
RevDate: 2026-01-15
Electrocorticographic, Astrocytic and Transcriptomic Signatures in the Triple Transgenic Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease submitted to Stearoyl-CoA Desaturase Inhibition.
Neuropharmacology pii:S0028-3908(26)00008-0 [Epub ahead of print].
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with cognitive deficits and sleep disturbances. Research suggests the involvement of dysfunctions in lipid metabolism in the brain of AD patients and animal models. The inhibition of stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD), a lipid-converting enzyme, was shown to restore memory in triple transgenic (3xTg)-AD mice. In the brain, astrocytes regulate the synthesis of specific lipids. This project tested whether the inhibition of SCD restores sleep in 3xTg-AD mice, and whether this associates with modifications in lipids, astrocytic function and the transcriptome. Wild-type (WT) and 3xTg-AD female mice received a SCD inhibitor (SCDi) or vehicle, which was followed by an electrocorticographic (ECoG) recording. Brain slices were stained for lipid droplets, astrocytic markers or processed for spatial transcriptomics. The reduced time spent awake (increased time spent in slow wave sleep) in 3xTg-AD mice was not restored by SCDi treatment. Rhythmic and scale-free ECoG activities were markedly altered in 3xTg-AD mice for all wake/sleep states, and SCDi changed these ECoG signatures differently in mutant in comparison to WT mice. GFAP-positive cell density and lipid droplet count were elevated in hippocampal CA1, and rescued by SCDi. The treatment also rescued the expression of several genes in a manner mainly overlapping between brain regions. The findings suggest that the multiple wake/sleep alterations in 3xTg-AD mice are not mitigated by SCD inhibition, but that this treatment can revert changes in hippocampal astrocytes, lipids and in the brain transcriptome. This work will benefit the understanding of the AD pathophysiology and associated sleep disturbances.
Additional Links: PMID-41539386
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@article {pmid41539386,
year = {2026},
author = {Hector, A and Leduc, T and Caiado, MJDC and Delignat-Lavaud, B and Dufort-Gervais, J and Daneault, C and Des Rosiers, C and Bourguignon, C and Lina, JM and Fernandes, K and Brouillette, J and Mongrain, V},
title = {Electrocorticographic, Astrocytic and Transcriptomic Signatures in the Triple Transgenic Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease submitted to Stearoyl-CoA Desaturase Inhibition.},
journal = {Neuropharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {110835},
doi = {10.1016/j.neuropharm.2026.110835},
pmid = {41539386},
issn = {1873-7064},
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with cognitive deficits and sleep disturbances. Research suggests the involvement of dysfunctions in lipid metabolism in the brain of AD patients and animal models. The inhibition of stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD), a lipid-converting enzyme, was shown to restore memory in triple transgenic (3xTg)-AD mice. In the brain, astrocytes regulate the synthesis of specific lipids. This project tested whether the inhibition of SCD restores sleep in 3xTg-AD mice, and whether this associates with modifications in lipids, astrocytic function and the transcriptome. Wild-type (WT) and 3xTg-AD female mice received a SCD inhibitor (SCDi) or vehicle, which was followed by an electrocorticographic (ECoG) recording. Brain slices were stained for lipid droplets, astrocytic markers or processed for spatial transcriptomics. The reduced time spent awake (increased time spent in slow wave sleep) in 3xTg-AD mice was not restored by SCDi treatment. Rhythmic and scale-free ECoG activities were markedly altered in 3xTg-AD mice for all wake/sleep states, and SCDi changed these ECoG signatures differently in mutant in comparison to WT mice. GFAP-positive cell density and lipid droplet count were elevated in hippocampal CA1, and rescued by SCDi. The treatment also rescued the expression of several genes in a manner mainly overlapping between brain regions. The findings suggest that the multiple wake/sleep alterations in 3xTg-AD mice are not mitigated by SCD inhibition, but that this treatment can revert changes in hippocampal astrocytes, lipids and in the brain transcriptome. This work will benefit the understanding of the AD pathophysiology and associated sleep disturbances.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-15
CmpDate: 2026-01-15
Mangiferin Alleviates Formaldehyde-Induced Tau Hyperphosphorylation and Cognitive Impairment in Mice via the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β Pathway: Insights From Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation.
FASEB journal : official publication of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology, 40(2):e71346.
Studies have demonstrated that accumulation of formaldehyde (FA) in the body can result in Alzheimer's disease (AD) like changes including cognitive impairment, Aβ deposition, and Tau hyperphosphorylation. Mangiferin (MGF), a natural flavonoid compound, has been suggested in previous reports to have potential in the treatment of AD. This study integrated network pharmacology and in vivo experiments to elucidate the therapeutic potential and mechanisms of MGF in mitigating FA-induced neurotoxicity. Potential overlapping targets between MGF and AD were identified using jvenn. Functional enrichment analysis of these targets was performed with DAVID. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using STRING and visualized in Cytoscape to identify hub genes. Molecular docking simulations with AutoDock were then employed to assess binding affinity. Subsequently, for experimental validation, a mouse model of FA-induced neurotoxicity was established. Spatial memory and cognitive function in mice were evaluated using the Y-maze and novel object recognition tests. The expression levels of key pathway-related proteins in the cortex and hippocampus were analyzed via immunohistochemistry (IHC) and Western blotting (WB). Network analysis identified AKT1 and GSK3β as key targets, and molecular docking confirmed strong binding affinity between MGF and these proteins. Experimental validation demonstrated that MGF dose-dependently improved spatial memory and cognitive performance in FA-exposed mice, reduced neuronal apoptosis, and suppressed Tau hyperphosphorylation at Thr181, Ser396, and Ser404. Mechanistically, MGF activated the PI3K/AKT pathway, leading to GSK3β inactivation through Ser9 phosphorylation. These findings highlight MGF as a promising therapeutic candidate for AD by targeting the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β axis.
Additional Links: PMID-41537771
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid41537771,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, N and Sun, Z and Chen, F and Tian, X and Li, J and He, X},
title = {Mangiferin Alleviates Formaldehyde-Induced Tau Hyperphosphorylation and Cognitive Impairment in Mice via the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β Pathway: Insights From Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation.},
journal = {FASEB journal : official publication of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology},
volume = {40},
number = {2},
pages = {e71346},
doi = {10.1096/fj.202503159R},
pmid = {41537771},
issn = {1530-6860},
support = {202401AT070082//Yunnan Fundamental Research Projects/ ; 202301BA070001-032//Yunnan Fundamental Research Projects/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 beta/metabolism ; Mice ; *tau Proteins/metabolism ; *Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt/metabolism ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/chemically induced/metabolism/drug therapy ; *Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases/metabolism ; *Xanthones/pharmacology ; Phosphorylation/drug effects ; Male ; Network Pharmacology/methods ; *Formaldehyde/toxicity ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; Signal Transduction/drug effects ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Hippocampus/metabolism/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Studies have demonstrated that accumulation of formaldehyde (FA) in the body can result in Alzheimer's disease (AD) like changes including cognitive impairment, Aβ deposition, and Tau hyperphosphorylation. Mangiferin (MGF), a natural flavonoid compound, has been suggested in previous reports to have potential in the treatment of AD. This study integrated network pharmacology and in vivo experiments to elucidate the therapeutic potential and mechanisms of MGF in mitigating FA-induced neurotoxicity. Potential overlapping targets between MGF and AD were identified using jvenn. Functional enrichment analysis of these targets was performed with DAVID. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using STRING and visualized in Cytoscape to identify hub genes. Molecular docking simulations with AutoDock were then employed to assess binding affinity. Subsequently, for experimental validation, a mouse model of FA-induced neurotoxicity was established. Spatial memory and cognitive function in mice were evaluated using the Y-maze and novel object recognition tests. The expression levels of key pathway-related proteins in the cortex and hippocampus were analyzed via immunohistochemistry (IHC) and Western blotting (WB). Network analysis identified AKT1 and GSK3β as key targets, and molecular docking confirmed strong binding affinity between MGF and these proteins. Experimental validation demonstrated that MGF dose-dependently improved spatial memory and cognitive performance in FA-exposed mice, reduced neuronal apoptosis, and suppressed Tau hyperphosphorylation at Thr181, Ser396, and Ser404. Mechanistically, MGF activated the PI3K/AKT pathway, leading to GSK3β inactivation through Ser9 phosphorylation. These findings highlight MGF as a promising therapeutic candidate for AD by targeting the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β axis.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Animals
*Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 beta/metabolism
Mice
*tau Proteins/metabolism
*Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt/metabolism
*Cognitive Dysfunction/chemically induced/metabolism/drug therapy
*Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases/metabolism
*Xanthones/pharmacology
Phosphorylation/drug effects
Male
Network Pharmacology/methods
*Formaldehyde/toxicity
Molecular Docking Simulation
Signal Transduction/drug effects
Mice, Inbred C57BL
Hippocampus/metabolism/drug effects
RevDate: 2026-01-17
CmpDate: 2026-01-15
Mild Cognitive Impairment Detection System Based on Unstructured Spontaneous Speech: Longitudinal Dual-Modal Framework.
JMIR medical informatics, 14:e80883.
BACKGROUND: In recent years, the incidence of cognitive diseases has also risen with the significant increase in population aging. Among these diseases, Alzheimer disease constitutes a substantial proportion, placing a high-cost burden on health care systems. To give early treatment and slow the progression of patient deterioration, it is crucial to diagnose mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a transitional stage.
OBJECTIVE: In this study, we use autobiographical memory (AM) test speech data to establish a dual-modal longitudinal cognitive detection system for MCI. The AM test is a psychological assessment method that evaluates the cognitive status of subjects as they freely narrate important life experiences.
METHODS: Identifying hidden disease-related information in unstructured, spontaneous speech is more difficult than in structured speech. To improve this process, we use both speech and text data, which provide more clues about a person's cognitive state. In addition, to track how cognition changes over time in spontaneous speech, we introduce an aging trajectory module. This module uses local and global alignment loss functions to better learn time-related features by aligning cognitive changes across different time points.
RESULTS: In our experiments on the Chinese dataset, the longitudinal model incorporating the aging trajectory module achieved area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.85 and 0.89 on 2 datasets, respectively, showing significant improvement over cross-sectional, single time point models. We also conducted ablation studies to verify the necessity of the proposed aging trajectory module. To confirm that the model not only applies to AM test data, we used part of the model to evaluate the performance on the ADReSSo dataset, a single time point semistructured data for validation, with results showing an accuracy exceeding 0.88.
CONCLUSIONS: This study presents a noninvasive and scalable approach for early MCI detection by leveraging AM speech data across multiple time points. Through dual-modal analysis and the introduction of an aging trajectory module, our system effectively captures cognitive decline trends over time. Experimental results demonstrate the method's robustness and generalizability, highlighting its potential for real-world, long-term cognitive monitoring.
Additional Links: PMID-41538772
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Citation:
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@article {pmid41538772,
year = {2026},
author = {Liao, YS and Wai, T and Liao, TY and Chang, HL and Chang, YL and Fu, LC},
title = {Mild Cognitive Impairment Detection System Based on Unstructured Spontaneous Speech: Longitudinal Dual-Modal Framework.},
journal = {JMIR medical informatics},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {e80883},
pmid = {41538772},
issn = {2291-9694},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnosis ; Aged ; Male ; Female ; Longitudinal Studies ; *Speech ; Aged, 80 and over ; Memory, Episodic ; China ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: In recent years, the incidence of cognitive diseases has also risen with the significant increase in population aging. Among these diseases, Alzheimer disease constitutes a substantial proportion, placing a high-cost burden on health care systems. To give early treatment and slow the progression of patient deterioration, it is crucial to diagnose mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a transitional stage.
OBJECTIVE: In this study, we use autobiographical memory (AM) test speech data to establish a dual-modal longitudinal cognitive detection system for MCI. The AM test is a psychological assessment method that evaluates the cognitive status of subjects as they freely narrate important life experiences.
METHODS: Identifying hidden disease-related information in unstructured, spontaneous speech is more difficult than in structured speech. To improve this process, we use both speech and text data, which provide more clues about a person's cognitive state. In addition, to track how cognition changes over time in spontaneous speech, we introduce an aging trajectory module. This module uses local and global alignment loss functions to better learn time-related features by aligning cognitive changes across different time points.
RESULTS: In our experiments on the Chinese dataset, the longitudinal model incorporating the aging trajectory module achieved area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.85 and 0.89 on 2 datasets, respectively, showing significant improvement over cross-sectional, single time point models. We also conducted ablation studies to verify the necessity of the proposed aging trajectory module. To confirm that the model not only applies to AM test data, we used part of the model to evaluate the performance on the ADReSSo dataset, a single time point semistructured data for validation, with results showing an accuracy exceeding 0.88.
CONCLUSIONS: This study presents a noninvasive and scalable approach for early MCI detection by leveraging AM speech data across multiple time points. Through dual-modal analysis and the introduction of an aging trajectory module, our system effectively captures cognitive decline trends over time. Experimental results demonstrate the method's robustness and generalizability, highlighting its potential for real-world, long-term cognitive monitoring.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnosis
Aged
Male
Female
Longitudinal Studies
*Speech
Aged, 80 and over
Memory, Episodic
China
RevDate: 2026-01-17
CmpDate: 2026-01-15
The Gwangju Alzheimer's & Related Dementias (GARD) cohort: Over a decade of Asia's largest longitudinal multimodal study.
Alzheimer's & dementia : the journal of the Alzheimer's Association, 22(1):e70981.
INTRODUCTION: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major public health concern in Korea, with a high prevalence among older adults. A community-based longitudinal study is essential for tracking disease progression, identifying biomarkers, and developing targeted prevention and treatment strategies. The Gwangju Alzheimer's & Related Dementias (GARD) cohort was established to address these needs through a multimodal approach.
METHODS: Participants aged ≥60 years undergo comprehensive clinical evaluations, neuroimaging, and biospecimen collection for multi-omics analyses (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metagenomics) at baseline and systematic follow-up visits.
RESULTS: From over 17,000 screened individuals, 12,877 were enrolled. Baseline diagnoses include 5,123 cognitively unimpaired (CU), 3,250 mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 2,125 AD dementia. The resource includes magnetic resonance imaging scans (n = 10,843) and extensive multi-omics data: genomic (n = 10,775), proteomic (n = 116), and microbiome (n = 595).
DISCUSSION: The integrated GARD dataset provides a powerful and scalable resource for identifying novel biomarkers, understanding disease heterogeneity, and advancing precision medicine for AD.
HIGHLIGHTS: Gwangju Alzheimer's & Related Dementias (GARD) is a large-scale, longitudinal, community-based cohort study in South Korea. The study focuses on early detection and monitoring of dementia progression. GARD includes cognitive testing, imaging, biospecimens, and multi-omics data. We aim to identify Korean-specific biomarkers predictive of cognitive decline. Supports East Asian insights and fills gaps in global Alzheimer's research.
Additional Links: PMID-41537461
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Citation:
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@article {pmid41537461,
year = {2026},
author = {Choi, KY and Kang, S and Cook, S and Li, D and Choi, YY and Seo, EH and Han, X and Park, JE and Lee, S and Lee, S and Chung, JY and Chong, A and Choi, SM and Ha, JM and Song, MK and Lee, JS and Choo, IH and Kim, JH and Song, HC and Kim, BC and Kim, H and Farrer, LA and Gim, J and Jun, GR and Lee, KH},
title = {The Gwangju Alzheimer's & Related Dementias (GARD) cohort: Over a decade of Asia's largest longitudinal multimodal study.},
journal = {Alzheimer's & dementia : the journal of the Alzheimer's Association},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {e70981},
pmid = {41537461},
issn = {1552-5279},
support = {25-BR-03-05//the KBRI Basic Research Program through the Korea Brain Research Institute, funded by the Ministry of Science and ICT/ ; NRF-2014M3C7A1046041//the Original Technology Research Program for Brain Science of the National Research Foundation funded by the Korean government, MSIT/ ; RS-2024-00407198//Brain Pool program funded by the Ministry of Science and ICT through the National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; 2023-ER1007-01//Korea National Institute of Health research project/ ; //by the Technology Innovation Program (20022810, Development and Demonstration of a Digital System for the evaluation of geriatric Cognitive impairment) funded By the Ministry of Trade, Industry & Energy (MOTIE, Korea)/ ; RS-2024-00433283//the Technology Innovation Program funded by the Ministry of Trade, Industry & Energy, Republic of Korea/ ; HR22C141105//Korea Health Technology R&D Project through the Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI), funded by the Ministry of Health & Welfare, Republic of Korea/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; *Alzheimer Disease/epidemiology/diagnostic imaging/genetics/diagnosis ; Female ; Aged ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/epidemiology/diagnostic imaging ; Disease Progression ; Republic of Korea/epidemiology ; Cohort Studies ; Middle Aged ; Biomarkers ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Aged, 80 and over ; Neuroimaging ; Proteomics ; Genomics ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major public health concern in Korea, with a high prevalence among older adults. A community-based longitudinal study is essential for tracking disease progression, identifying biomarkers, and developing targeted prevention and treatment strategies. The Gwangju Alzheimer's & Related Dementias (GARD) cohort was established to address these needs through a multimodal approach.
METHODS: Participants aged ≥60 years undergo comprehensive clinical evaluations, neuroimaging, and biospecimen collection for multi-omics analyses (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metagenomics) at baseline and systematic follow-up visits.
RESULTS: From over 17,000 screened individuals, 12,877 were enrolled. Baseline diagnoses include 5,123 cognitively unimpaired (CU), 3,250 mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 2,125 AD dementia. The resource includes magnetic resonance imaging scans (n = 10,843) and extensive multi-omics data: genomic (n = 10,775), proteomic (n = 116), and microbiome (n = 595).
DISCUSSION: The integrated GARD dataset provides a powerful and scalable resource for identifying novel biomarkers, understanding disease heterogeneity, and advancing precision medicine for AD.
HIGHLIGHTS: Gwangju Alzheimer's & Related Dementias (GARD) is a large-scale, longitudinal, community-based cohort study in South Korea. The study focuses on early detection and monitoring of dementia progression. GARD includes cognitive testing, imaging, biospecimens, and multi-omics data. We aim to identify Korean-specific biomarkers predictive of cognitive decline. Supports East Asian insights and fills gaps in global Alzheimer's research.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Longitudinal Studies
Male
*Alzheimer Disease/epidemiology/diagnostic imaging/genetics/diagnosis
Female
Aged
*Cognitive Dysfunction/epidemiology/diagnostic imaging
Disease Progression
Republic of Korea/epidemiology
Cohort Studies
Middle Aged
Biomarkers
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Aged, 80 and over
Neuroimaging
Proteomics
Genomics
RevDate: 2026-01-17
CmpDate: 2026-01-15
Non-Cognitive Symptoms in Alzheimer's Disease and Their Likely Impact on Patient Outcomes. A Scoping Review.
Current treatment options in neurology, 27:.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Increased understanding of the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) has led to development of disease modifying therapies. The therapies primarily target measures of cognitive decline since AD has been thought of as a cognitive disorder. However, the non-cognitive symptoms seen in AD contribute to overall quality-of-life. This scoping review was undertaken to further our understanding of the non-cognitive features of AD.
RECENT FINDINGS: The non-cognitive symptoms in AD range from changes in sensory perception, systemic changes, and neuropsychiatric manifestations. We targeted the following non-cognitive domains: vision, olfaction, GI, muscle, sleep, circadian rhythm, immune and behavioral symptoms as it relates to AD for this review. Non-cognitive features impact the ability of individuals to perform their activities of daily living, have safety implications and lead to increased caregiver burden. The review explores non-pharmacological and pharmacological measures targeted at the non-cognitive changes in AD.
SUMMARY: Non-cognitive symptoms contribute to significant disease burden in Alzheimer's disease. It is important to screen for and provide supportive care for these symptoms to help improve clinical care. Incorporation of non-cognitive features of AD in clinical trials will help ascertain the true societal and economic impact of AD and that of potential therapeutics.
OPINION STATEMENT: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is primarily recognized as a disorder of cognition; however, non-cognitive symptoms significantly contribute to disease burden and clinical presentation. These manifestations particularly behavioral symptoms and systemic changes beyond the central nervous system impact patients' quality of life and increase caregiver stress. Often, such symptoms necessitate a transition from home-based care to more intensive settings, such as memory care facilities. As AD prevalence rises alongside an aging population, the shortage of dedicated memory care providers in community settings challenges access and quality of care. Improved awareness and early recognition of non-cognitive features among healthcare professionals can aid identification of modifiable systemic issues and allow timely behavioral management during clinical encounters. Treatment of these symptoms requires a multifaceted approach, incorporating pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies. Non-pharmacological interventions, including tailored behavioral approaches and environmental modifications, can enhance quality of life for individuals with AD and reduce caregiver burden especially where specialized medical resources are limited.
Additional Links: PMID-41536422
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41536422,
year = {2025},
author = {Thaliath, A and Pillai, JA},
title = {Non-Cognitive Symptoms in Alzheimer's Disease and Their Likely Impact on Patient Outcomes. A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Current treatment options in neurology},
volume = {27},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41536422},
issn = {1092-8480},
support = {P30 AG072959/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Increased understanding of the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) has led to development of disease modifying therapies. The therapies primarily target measures of cognitive decline since AD has been thought of as a cognitive disorder. However, the non-cognitive symptoms seen in AD contribute to overall quality-of-life. This scoping review was undertaken to further our understanding of the non-cognitive features of AD.
RECENT FINDINGS: The non-cognitive symptoms in AD range from changes in sensory perception, systemic changes, and neuropsychiatric manifestations. We targeted the following non-cognitive domains: vision, olfaction, GI, muscle, sleep, circadian rhythm, immune and behavioral symptoms as it relates to AD for this review. Non-cognitive features impact the ability of individuals to perform their activities of daily living, have safety implications and lead to increased caregiver burden. The review explores non-pharmacological and pharmacological measures targeted at the non-cognitive changes in AD.
SUMMARY: Non-cognitive symptoms contribute to significant disease burden in Alzheimer's disease. It is important to screen for and provide supportive care for these symptoms to help improve clinical care. Incorporation of non-cognitive features of AD in clinical trials will help ascertain the true societal and economic impact of AD and that of potential therapeutics.
OPINION STATEMENT: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is primarily recognized as a disorder of cognition; however, non-cognitive symptoms significantly contribute to disease burden and clinical presentation. These manifestations particularly behavioral symptoms and systemic changes beyond the central nervous system impact patients' quality of life and increase caregiver stress. Often, such symptoms necessitate a transition from home-based care to more intensive settings, such as memory care facilities. As AD prevalence rises alongside an aging population, the shortage of dedicated memory care providers in community settings challenges access and quality of care. Improved awareness and early recognition of non-cognitive features among healthcare professionals can aid identification of modifiable systemic issues and allow timely behavioral management during clinical encounters. Treatment of these symptoms requires a multifaceted approach, incorporating pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies. Non-pharmacological interventions, including tailored behavioral approaches and environmental modifications, can enhance quality of life for individuals with AD and reduce caregiver burden especially where specialized medical resources are limited.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-15
Chiral Spindle-like Nanorods Reprogram Neuroinflammation by Catalyzing α-Ketoglutarate Biosynthesis.
Journal of the American Chemical Society [Epub ahead of print].
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent cause of dementia worldwide, and breakthroughs in effective intervention strategies are urgently needed. Here, we report that chiral spindle-like Fe7Se8 nanorods (NRs) promote α-ketoglutarate (AKG) biosynthesis, providing a new potential route for AD intervention through modulation of neuroimmune homeostasis. Oral administration of L-NRs significantly restored intestinal microbiota homeostasis in 3 × Tg AD model mice, markedly enriched Lactobacillus johnsonii, and enhanced biosynthesis of the metabolite AKG, which reversed cognitive impairment and neuronal degeneration in 5 × FAD mice. Moreover, AKG levels in the clinical serum and cerebrospinal fluids were found to be significantly lower in patients with AD than in healthy controls. Mechanistic studies revealed that L-NRs efficiently promoted AKG biosynthesis through scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) to restore the activities of three enzymes in the biosynthesis pathway. Crucially, these NRs are broken down by gastric juice into smaller nanoparticles and subsequently into ions in the intestines. Further studies explored that AKG crossed the blood-brain barrier via cooperatively mediated transport proteins, targeted microglial phenotypic switching, reprogrammed the neuroinflammatory microenvironment, and ultimately ameliorated cognitive deficits and neuronal pathological alterations. Our findings suggest that AKG might serve as a therapeutic drug for the precise treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Additional Links: PMID-41536056
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41536056,
year = {2026},
author = {Dong, J and Xu, L and Xu, X and Shi, B and Wang, Q and Xu, J and Xu, C and Kuang, H and Qu, A},
title = {Chiral Spindle-like Nanorods Reprogram Neuroinflammation by Catalyzing α-Ketoglutarate Biosynthesis.},
journal = {Journal of the American Chemical Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/jacs.5c19753},
pmid = {41536056},
issn = {1520-5126},
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent cause of dementia worldwide, and breakthroughs in effective intervention strategies are urgently needed. Here, we report that chiral spindle-like Fe7Se8 nanorods (NRs) promote α-ketoglutarate (AKG) biosynthesis, providing a new potential route for AD intervention through modulation of neuroimmune homeostasis. Oral administration of L-NRs significantly restored intestinal microbiota homeostasis in 3 × Tg AD model mice, markedly enriched Lactobacillus johnsonii, and enhanced biosynthesis of the metabolite AKG, which reversed cognitive impairment and neuronal degeneration in 5 × FAD mice. Moreover, AKG levels in the clinical serum and cerebrospinal fluids were found to be significantly lower in patients with AD than in healthy controls. Mechanistic studies revealed that L-NRs efficiently promoted AKG biosynthesis through scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) to restore the activities of three enzymes in the biosynthesis pathway. Crucially, these NRs are broken down by gastric juice into smaller nanoparticles and subsequently into ions in the intestines. Further studies explored that AKG crossed the blood-brain barrier via cooperatively mediated transport proteins, targeted microglial phenotypic switching, reprogrammed the neuroinflammatory microenvironment, and ultimately ameliorated cognitive deficits and neuronal pathological alterations. Our findings suggest that AKG might serve as a therapeutic drug for the precise treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-14
β-Hydroxybutyrate improves glymphatic system function and alleviates cerebral edema in mice after ischemic stroke.
Acta pharmacologica Sinica [Epub ahead of print].
Cerebral edema is a severe complication following ischemic stroke. Recent studies have highlighted the crucial role of the glymphatic system (GS) in the clearance of water and macromolecules. GS dysfunction involving the disorders of AQP4 polarization may be crucial in the pathophysiology of cerebral edema. β-Hydroxybutyrate (BHB), the main component of the ketone body, has been shown to alleviate neurological deficits by restoring GS function in subarachnoid hemorrhage models and to reduce Aβ deposition in Alzheimer's disease models. In this study we investigated the effects of BHB on cerebral edema following ischemic stroke and its mechanisms. The mice were fed a ketogenic diet (KD) or a normal diet for 4 weeks before transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Alternatively, the mice received BHB (5 g·kg[-1]·d[-1]) or vehicle post-MCAO. By using brain section analysis, transcranial macroimaging, two-photon in vivo imaging and MRI, we demonstrated that both KD and BHB treatment significantly enhanced GS function under normal and MCAO conditions. BHB reduced cerebral edema and infarct volume post-MCAO. Notably, delayed BHB treatment initiated 10 h post-MCAO still improved GS function, but did not influence infarct volume. Furthermore, we revealed that BHB increased α1-syntrophin expression and H3K27ac levels in α1-syntrophin (Snta1) enhancer, restoring AQP4 polarization. In addition, BHB also reduced HDAC3 expression and elevated p300 expression. These results suggest that a KD and BHB treatment enhance GS function in mice and that BHB also mitigates brain edema after MCAO. The potentiation of GS function by BHB is likely mediated by the inhibition of HDAC3 activity and the increase in p300 activity, which upregulate α1-syntrophin expression and restore AQP4 polarization.
Additional Links: PMID-41535708
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@article {pmid41535708,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, MJ and Xiong, RQ and Wu, JW and Li, YC and Xie, JX and Zhou, HP and Ye, GY and Chang, Y and Huang, KB and Pan, SY},
title = {β-Hydroxybutyrate improves glymphatic system function and alleviates cerebral edema in mice after ischemic stroke.},
journal = {Acta pharmacologica Sinica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41535708},
issn = {1745-7254},
abstract = {Cerebral edema is a severe complication following ischemic stroke. Recent studies have highlighted the crucial role of the glymphatic system (GS) in the clearance of water and macromolecules. GS dysfunction involving the disorders of AQP4 polarization may be crucial in the pathophysiology of cerebral edema. β-Hydroxybutyrate (BHB), the main component of the ketone body, has been shown to alleviate neurological deficits by restoring GS function in subarachnoid hemorrhage models and to reduce Aβ deposition in Alzheimer's disease models. In this study we investigated the effects of BHB on cerebral edema following ischemic stroke and its mechanisms. The mice were fed a ketogenic diet (KD) or a normal diet for 4 weeks before transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Alternatively, the mice received BHB (5 g·kg[-1]·d[-1]) or vehicle post-MCAO. By using brain section analysis, transcranial macroimaging, two-photon in vivo imaging and MRI, we demonstrated that both KD and BHB treatment significantly enhanced GS function under normal and MCAO conditions. BHB reduced cerebral edema and infarct volume post-MCAO. Notably, delayed BHB treatment initiated 10 h post-MCAO still improved GS function, but did not influence infarct volume. Furthermore, we revealed that BHB increased α1-syntrophin expression and H3K27ac levels in α1-syntrophin (Snta1) enhancer, restoring AQP4 polarization. In addition, BHB also reduced HDAC3 expression and elevated p300 expression. These results suggest that a KD and BHB treatment enhance GS function in mice and that BHB also mitigates brain edema after MCAO. The potentiation of GS function by BHB is likely mediated by the inhibition of HDAC3 activity and the increase in p300 activity, which upregulate α1-syntrophin expression and restore AQP4 polarization.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-14
[Polypharmacy in patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms].
Innere Medizin (Heidelberg, Germany) [Epub ahead of print].
Dementia, delirium, and depression are the main geriatric psychiatric syndromes, and their prevalence is increasing significantly due to demographic aging. At the same time, multimorbidity and polypharmacy lead to increased interaction rates and a higher frequency of side effects, as well as reduced adherence. In Germany, the number of dementia cases is projected to rise from the current 1.8 million to 2.8 million by 2050. The most common etiologies are Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. Progressive cognitive and motor function loss often results in apraxia and dysphagia, which complicate pharmacotherapy. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine) and memantine are used therapeutically. Newly approved amyloid antibodies (lecanemab, donanemab) show efficacy in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, but carry the risk of amyloid-associated imaging abnormalities (ARIA). Dementia is considered a predisposing risk factor for delirium, which is characterized by fluctuations in attention and consciousness. Delirogenic factors include polypharmacy as well as other medications such as opioids and benzodiazepines. Due to the increased risk of mortality and stroke, neuroleptics should only be administered to geriatric patients when strictly indicated, in minimal doses, and for a limited duration. Non-pharmacological interventions take precedence. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are considered the first-line treatment for depressive disorders in older adults, while tricyclic antidepressants should be avoided. Regular medication reviews, reduction of anticholinergic burden, and technical aids to facilitate medication intake are essential for optimizing treatment adherence.
Additional Links: PMID-41535445
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41535445,
year = {2026},
author = {Schnieder, M and von Arnim, CAF},
title = {[Polypharmacy in patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms].},
journal = {Innere Medizin (Heidelberg, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41535445},
issn = {2731-7099},
abstract = {Dementia, delirium, and depression are the main geriatric psychiatric syndromes, and their prevalence is increasing significantly due to demographic aging. At the same time, multimorbidity and polypharmacy lead to increased interaction rates and a higher frequency of side effects, as well as reduced adherence. In Germany, the number of dementia cases is projected to rise from the current 1.8 million to 2.8 million by 2050. The most common etiologies are Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. Progressive cognitive and motor function loss often results in apraxia and dysphagia, which complicate pharmacotherapy. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine) and memantine are used therapeutically. Newly approved amyloid antibodies (lecanemab, donanemab) show efficacy in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, but carry the risk of amyloid-associated imaging abnormalities (ARIA). Dementia is considered a predisposing risk factor for delirium, which is characterized by fluctuations in attention and consciousness. Delirogenic factors include polypharmacy as well as other medications such as opioids and benzodiazepines. Due to the increased risk of mortality and stroke, neuroleptics should only be administered to geriatric patients when strictly indicated, in minimal doses, and for a limited duration. Non-pharmacological interventions take precedence. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are considered the first-line treatment for depressive disorders in older adults, while tricyclic antidepressants should be avoided. Regular medication reviews, reduction of anticholinergic burden, and technical aids to facilitate medication intake are essential for optimizing treatment adherence.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-14
Brexpiprazole side-effect profile in people with agitation in Alzheimer's dementia: a plain language summary.
Current medical research and opinion [Epub ahead of print].
Additional Links: PMID-41533472
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41533472,
year = {2026},
author = {Shah, A and Kalu, U and Chen, D and Slomkowski, M and Hobart, M and Such, P and Grossberg, GT},
title = {Brexpiprazole side-effect profile in people with agitation in Alzheimer's dementia: a plain language summary.},
journal = {Current medical research and opinion},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-3},
doi = {10.1080/03007995.2025.2608578},
pmid = {41533472},
issn = {1473-4877},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-17
CmpDate: 2026-01-14
Geroprotective effects of Salvianolic acid A through redox and detoxification pathway activation in an aging Drosophila Alzheimer's model.
Biogerontology, 27(1):39.
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-β42 (Aβ42) neurotoxic peptides that cause oxidative stress and neurodegeneration. The current study examined the neuroprotective properties of salvianolic acid A (SalA), an antioxidant polyphenol, in a Drosophila melanogaster model of AD. Transgenic flies expressing human Aβ42 were assayed for eye morphology, life span, and locomotor function after SalA diet supplementation. RNA-seq and RT-qPCR were used to quantify transcriptional regulation with SalA treatment. Aβ42 expression resulted in classic AD phenotypes, including retinal degeneration, shortened lifespan, and compromised climbing ability. Partial rescue of the rough-eye phenotype, significant prolongation of lifespan, and improved locomotor function in aging flies were induced by SalA treatment. Transcriptome profiling showed the upregulation of glutathione metabolism-associated, cytochrome P450 activity-associated, and antioxidant defence-associated genes, while muscle development-associated, cell adhesion-associated, and apoptosis-associated genes were downregulated. Network analysis identified a SalA-responsive gene module enriched in detoxification and immune pathways that was conducive to enhanced cellular resistance to Aβ42 toxicity. These findings identify a redox-regulated aging mechanism whereby SalA maintains neuronal and systemic homeostasis during aging. SalA inhibits Aβ42-induced neurotoxicity in Drosophila via promoting redox equilibrium and detoxification. These findings present SalA as a potential multi-target lead drug for AD and other age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
Additional Links: PMID-41533031
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41533031,
year = {2026},
author = {Tan, FHP and Najimudin, N and Azzam, G and Zainuddin, A and Shamsuddin, S and Mohd Kasihmuddin, MS},
title = {Geroprotective effects of Salvianolic acid A through redox and detoxification pathway activation in an aging Drosophila Alzheimer's model.},
journal = {Biogerontology},
volume = {27},
number = {1},
pages = {39},
pmid = {41533031},
issn = {1573-6768},
mesh = {Animals ; *Alzheimer Disease/metabolism/drug therapy/genetics ; Drosophila melanogaster ; Disease Models, Animal ; *Aging/drug effects/metabolism ; Oxidation-Reduction ; Animals, Genetically Modified ; Oxidative Stress/drug effects ; Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism/genetics ; *Caffeic Acids/pharmacology ; *Lactates/pharmacology ; Humans ; *Neuroprotective Agents/pharmacology ; Longevity/drug effects ; Peptide Fragments ; },
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-β42 (Aβ42) neurotoxic peptides that cause oxidative stress and neurodegeneration. The current study examined the neuroprotective properties of salvianolic acid A (SalA), an antioxidant polyphenol, in a Drosophila melanogaster model of AD. Transgenic flies expressing human Aβ42 were assayed for eye morphology, life span, and locomotor function after SalA diet supplementation. RNA-seq and RT-qPCR were used to quantify transcriptional regulation with SalA treatment. Aβ42 expression resulted in classic AD phenotypes, including retinal degeneration, shortened lifespan, and compromised climbing ability. Partial rescue of the rough-eye phenotype, significant prolongation of lifespan, and improved locomotor function in aging flies were induced by SalA treatment. Transcriptome profiling showed the upregulation of glutathione metabolism-associated, cytochrome P450 activity-associated, and antioxidant defence-associated genes, while muscle development-associated, cell adhesion-associated, and apoptosis-associated genes were downregulated. Network analysis identified a SalA-responsive gene module enriched in detoxification and immune pathways that was conducive to enhanced cellular resistance to Aβ42 toxicity. These findings identify a redox-regulated aging mechanism whereby SalA maintains neuronal and systemic homeostasis during aging. SalA inhibits Aβ42-induced neurotoxicity in Drosophila via promoting redox equilibrium and detoxification. These findings present SalA as a potential multi-target lead drug for AD and other age-related neurodegenerative diseases.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Animals
*Alzheimer Disease/metabolism/drug therapy/genetics
Drosophila melanogaster
Disease Models, Animal
*Aging/drug effects/metabolism
Oxidation-Reduction
Animals, Genetically Modified
Oxidative Stress/drug effects
Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism/genetics
*Caffeic Acids/pharmacology
*Lactates/pharmacology
Humans
*Neuroprotective Agents/pharmacology
Longevity/drug effects
Peptide Fragments
RevDate: 2026-01-17
Investigation of Three Flavonoids as Potent Tau Aggregation Inhibitors and In vivo Demonstration of Myricetin.
Pharmacological research. Natural products, 9:.
Neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), are characterized by the formation and propagation of neurotoxic tau aggregates, which arise from the misfolding and subsequent aggregation of tau proteins into fibrillary structures. While tau-targeting agents represent a promising therapeutic strategy for the prevention and treatment of various neurodegenerative diseases, they currently constitute a limited subset of the treatments undergoing clinical trials. In this study, we report the potent anti-aggregation and filament disassembly effects of three flavonols: myricetin, quercetagetin, gossypetin. We observed remarkable nanomolar-to-low-micromolar 50% inhibitory concentrations (0.57-1.21μM) and low 50% disassembly concentrations (7.5-14μM) using tau seeds derived from AD mouse model brains. Furthermore, we validated that myricetin treatment was associated with a reduction in overall phosphorylated tau (p-Tau) burden in vivo in the 3xTg AD mouse model. Notably, these reductions were associated with enhanced performance in Y-maze assessments of spatial learning and memory, supporting further preclinical evaluation, including direct brain pharmacokinetic studies and mechanism-driven investigations relevant to tauopathy therapy.
Additional Links: PMID-41531988
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41531988,
year = {2025},
author = {Benin, BM and Hillyer, T and Csubak, BA and Aguirre, N and Dengler-Crish, CM and Kang, C and Shin, WS},
title = {Investigation of Three Flavonoids as Potent Tau Aggregation Inhibitors and In vivo Demonstration of Myricetin.},
journal = {Pharmacological research. Natural products},
volume = {9},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41531988},
issn = {2950-1997},
support = {R01 AG076699/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R03 NS135326/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {Neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), are characterized by the formation and propagation of neurotoxic tau aggregates, which arise from the misfolding and subsequent aggregation of tau proteins into fibrillary structures. While tau-targeting agents represent a promising therapeutic strategy for the prevention and treatment of various neurodegenerative diseases, they currently constitute a limited subset of the treatments undergoing clinical trials. In this study, we report the potent anti-aggregation and filament disassembly effects of three flavonols: myricetin, quercetagetin, gossypetin. We observed remarkable nanomolar-to-low-micromolar 50% inhibitory concentrations (0.57-1.21μM) and low 50% disassembly concentrations (7.5-14μM) using tau seeds derived from AD mouse model brains. Furthermore, we validated that myricetin treatment was associated with a reduction in overall phosphorylated tau (p-Tau) burden in vivo in the 3xTg AD mouse model. Notably, these reductions were associated with enhanced performance in Y-maze assessments of spatial learning and memory, supporting further preclinical evaluation, including direct brain pharmacokinetic studies and mechanism-driven investigations relevant to tauopathy therapy.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-16
Theranostic advances in Alzheimer's disease: structure-guided design of near-infrared fluorescent probes targeting amyloid-β and cholinergic dysfunction.
RSC medicinal chemistry [Epub ahead of print].
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder, with unmet clinical challenges due to the lack of early diagnosis and an efficient treatment. Theranostics, an integrated approach that combines diagnosis and therapy, has emerged as a viable option, particularly with the use of near-infrared fluorescence probes (NIRFPs), which allow real-time in vivo imaging and therapeutic monitoring. This review article discusses recent breakthroughs in the rational design of alkene-bridged donor-π-acceptor (D-π-A) NIRFPs that target AD hallmarks such as amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregation and cholinergic dysfunction. We specifically focused on multifunctional probes like THK-565 (fluorescent compound), and a dihydrotetramethyl-indocyanine theranostic near-infrared probe (DTNP), which exhibit high blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, target selectivity, and dual imaging/therapeutic capabilities. Furthermore, emerging probes can distinguish between Aβ and cholinesterase (ChEs) with high resolution and low toxicity. Together, these molecular imaging technologies provide a game-changing platform for detection of early-stage AD and multiple intervention approaches. We explore structure-activity connections, molecular processes, and future directions for the clinical translation of NIRFP-based theranostic agents in AD.
Additional Links: PMID-41531938
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41531938,
year = {2026},
author = {Mandloi, U and Giri, N and Kumar, S and Modi, G},
title = {Theranostic advances in Alzheimer's disease: structure-guided design of near-infrared fluorescent probes targeting amyloid-β and cholinergic dysfunction.},
journal = {RSC medicinal chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41531938},
issn = {2632-8682},
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder, with unmet clinical challenges due to the lack of early diagnosis and an efficient treatment. Theranostics, an integrated approach that combines diagnosis and therapy, has emerged as a viable option, particularly with the use of near-infrared fluorescence probes (NIRFPs), which allow real-time in vivo imaging and therapeutic monitoring. This review article discusses recent breakthroughs in the rational design of alkene-bridged donor-π-acceptor (D-π-A) NIRFPs that target AD hallmarks such as amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregation and cholinergic dysfunction. We specifically focused on multifunctional probes like THK-565 (fluorescent compound), and a dihydrotetramethyl-indocyanine theranostic near-infrared probe (DTNP), which exhibit high blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, target selectivity, and dual imaging/therapeutic capabilities. Furthermore, emerging probes can distinguish between Aβ and cholinesterase (ChEs) with high resolution and low toxicity. Together, these molecular imaging technologies provide a game-changing platform for detection of early-stage AD and multiple intervention approaches. We explore structure-activity connections, molecular processes, and future directions for the clinical translation of NIRFP-based theranostic agents in AD.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-16
CmpDate: 2026-01-14
The fading self in space-disruption of default spatial representation across neurological disorders.
Frontiers in systems neuroscience, 19:1655500.
Neurological disorders stem from an intermingled change to self-in-space. While many of these disorders present as spatial deficits-contralateral neglect syndrome, for example-they manifest from the same etiology: disruption to the brain's "default spatial representation" (DSR). DSR is a basic internally generated representation of space that delineates where the self is located in space-without attentional focus from an external drive. We review how pathologic disintegration of DSR is associated with anomalous activation and connectivity within distinct large-scale brain networks (e.g., the default mode network and a comprehensive attention-networked system), leading to a heterogeneous presentation of clinically assessed outcomes. The outcomes include psychogenic paralysis of limbs, left-side neglect, rectified sense of other locations, disorders of consciousness, symptoms related to autism spectrum disorder, Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and depersonalization/derealization disorder. By consolidating evidence from neuroimaging, lesion-symptom mapping, and computational assessment, we aim to reconceptualize these disorders not as separate and independent maladies, but as manifestations of a deeper, shared etiology, supporting a network-based assessment strategy for diagnosis and treatment that seeks to restore self-in-space.
Additional Links: PMID-41531926
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41531926,
year = {2025},
author = {Jerath, R and Malani, V},
title = {The fading self in space-disruption of default spatial representation across neurological disorders.},
journal = {Frontiers in systems neuroscience},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {1655500},
pmid = {41531926},
issn = {1662-5137},
abstract = {Neurological disorders stem from an intermingled change to self-in-space. While many of these disorders present as spatial deficits-contralateral neglect syndrome, for example-they manifest from the same etiology: disruption to the brain's "default spatial representation" (DSR). DSR is a basic internally generated representation of space that delineates where the self is located in space-without attentional focus from an external drive. We review how pathologic disintegration of DSR is associated with anomalous activation and connectivity within distinct large-scale brain networks (e.g., the default mode network and a comprehensive attention-networked system), leading to a heterogeneous presentation of clinically assessed outcomes. The outcomes include psychogenic paralysis of limbs, left-side neglect, rectified sense of other locations, disorders of consciousness, symptoms related to autism spectrum disorder, Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and depersonalization/derealization disorder. By consolidating evidence from neuroimaging, lesion-symptom mapping, and computational assessment, we aim to reconceptualize these disorders not as separate and independent maladies, but as manifestations of a deeper, shared etiology, supporting a network-based assessment strategy for diagnosis and treatment that seeks to restore self-in-space.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-16
CmpDate: 2026-01-14
Research Progress on Idebenone in Neurodegenerative Diseases.
Aging medicine (Milton (N.S.W)), 8(6):624-633.
In recent years, significant progress has been made in understanding the therapeutic potential of idebenone (IDE), a synthetic analogue of Coenzyme Q10, in neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). This review comprehensively examines the pharmacological properties of IDE and its emerging applications in various NDs, with particular emphasis on Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Friedreich's ataxia, and Huntington's disease. We elucidate IDE's multifaceted neuroprotective mechanisms, including its potent antioxidant activity that reduces reactive oxygen species production, its ability to enhance mitochondrial bioenergetics, and its regulatory effects on cellular metabolism. Additionally, we critically evaluate current clinical research findings and discuss the translational potential of IDE in ND therapeutics. The accumulated evidence strongly supports IDE as a promising mitochondrial-targeted agent capable of mitigating disease symptoms and modifying disease progression in multiple neurodegenerative disorders. This review highlights both the current achievements and future directions for IDE-based interventions in ND treatment.
Additional Links: PMID-41531784
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41531784,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Y and Ren, Y and Zhu, X and Liu, T and Han, R and Fang, Y and Zhao, Z and Mao, F and Wang, Y and Li, X and Li, X},
title = {Research Progress on Idebenone in Neurodegenerative Diseases.},
journal = {Aging medicine (Milton (N.S.W))},
volume = {8},
number = {6},
pages = {624-633},
pmid = {41531784},
issn = {2475-0360},
abstract = {In recent years, significant progress has been made in understanding the therapeutic potential of idebenone (IDE), a synthetic analogue of Coenzyme Q10, in neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). This review comprehensively examines the pharmacological properties of IDE and its emerging applications in various NDs, with particular emphasis on Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Friedreich's ataxia, and Huntington's disease. We elucidate IDE's multifaceted neuroprotective mechanisms, including its potent antioxidant activity that reduces reactive oxygen species production, its ability to enhance mitochondrial bioenergetics, and its regulatory effects on cellular metabolism. Additionally, we critically evaluate current clinical research findings and discuss the translational potential of IDE in ND therapeutics. The accumulated evidence strongly supports IDE as a promising mitochondrial-targeted agent capable of mitigating disease symptoms and modifying disease progression in multiple neurodegenerative disorders. This review highlights both the current achievements and future directions for IDE-based interventions in ND treatment.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-17
Mild Behavioral Impairment is Associated With Incident Cognitive Decline Among Dementia-Free, Racially Diverse Older Adults: Data From the African Americans Fighting Alzheimer's in Midlife (AA-FAIM) Study.
The American journal of geriatric psychiatry. Open science, education, and practice, 8:43-53.
OBJECTIVES: To determine whether MBI associates with worse cognitive performance over time and with incident cognitive decline in an older, racially/ethnically diverse cohort at early stages of cognitive change.
DESIGN: This observational cohort study followed participants from the Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center Clinical Core (WADRC) for up to 13 visits.
SETTING: An urban university research center.
PARTICIPANTS: Participants from the WADRC Clinical Core were included in this convenience sample if they were without dementia, had undergone at least 1 cognitive assessment, and completed measures of cognitive, clinical and affective function.
MEASUREMENTS: MBI was assessed using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory. Linear mixed effects models (LME) were fit to cognitive outcomes Trailmaking Tests A and B (TMT-A, B) and Wechsler Logical Memory (LM). Cox proportional hazard models assessed whether MBI was related to risk for incident global Clinical Dementia Rating Scale (CDR >0).
RESULTS: N = 584 participants with mean age 64.6 years, range 46-92.6 years, 59.4% female and 17% African American. LME results indicated participants with MBI exhibited worse age-associated decline on TMT-B, compared to those without MBI (beta=0.008, p = 0.01, CI: 0.002, 0.01, t(337) = 2.4, p = 0.01). MBI at baseline was associated with a significant hazard ratio (HR) indicating an increased risk of decline on the CDR (HR: 2.84; HR 95% CI: 1.68 - 4.81; p = 0.0001).
CONCLUSIONS: MBI associated with worse cognitive performance and incident cognitive decline in a racially diverse, older adult sample at early stages of cognitive change. Increased awareness of the late life emergence of neuropsychiatric symptoms is warranted to assist in identification and improve prognostication and treatment of neurodegenerative disease.
Additional Links: PMID-41531459
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41531459,
year = {2025},
author = {Fischer, BL and Van Hulle, CA and Norton, DL and Wyman, MF and Ennis, G and Lambrou, NH and Bouges, S and Gooding, DC and Gleason, CE},
title = {Mild Behavioral Impairment is Associated With Incident Cognitive Decline Among Dementia-Free, Racially Diverse Older Adults: Data From the African Americans Fighting Alzheimer's in Midlife (AA-FAIM) Study.},
journal = {The American journal of geriatric psychiatry. Open science, education, and practice},
volume = {8},
number = {},
pages = {43-53},
pmid = {41531459},
issn = {2950-3868},
support = {R01 AG074231/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AG062307/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R56 AG062307/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; P30 AG062715/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AG054059/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To determine whether MBI associates with worse cognitive performance over time and with incident cognitive decline in an older, racially/ethnically diverse cohort at early stages of cognitive change.
DESIGN: This observational cohort study followed participants from the Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center Clinical Core (WADRC) for up to 13 visits.
SETTING: An urban university research center.
PARTICIPANTS: Participants from the WADRC Clinical Core were included in this convenience sample if they were without dementia, had undergone at least 1 cognitive assessment, and completed measures of cognitive, clinical and affective function.
MEASUREMENTS: MBI was assessed using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory. Linear mixed effects models (LME) were fit to cognitive outcomes Trailmaking Tests A and B (TMT-A, B) and Wechsler Logical Memory (LM). Cox proportional hazard models assessed whether MBI was related to risk for incident global Clinical Dementia Rating Scale (CDR >0).
RESULTS: N = 584 participants with mean age 64.6 years, range 46-92.6 years, 59.4% female and 17% African American. LME results indicated participants with MBI exhibited worse age-associated decline on TMT-B, compared to those without MBI (beta=0.008, p = 0.01, CI: 0.002, 0.01, t(337) = 2.4, p = 0.01). MBI at baseline was associated with a significant hazard ratio (HR) indicating an increased risk of decline on the CDR (HR: 2.84; HR 95% CI: 1.68 - 4.81; p = 0.0001).
CONCLUSIONS: MBI associated with worse cognitive performance and incident cognitive decline in a racially diverse, older adult sample at early stages of cognitive change. Increased awareness of the late life emergence of neuropsychiatric symptoms is warranted to assist in identification and improve prognostication and treatment of neurodegenerative disease.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-14
Menopause, cognition, and Alzheimer's disease risk.
Current opinion in obstetrics & gynecology pii:00001703-990000000-00228 [Epub ahead of print].
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Cognitive symptoms are common throughout the menopause transition. This review outlines a comprehensive clinical approach, grounded in recent findings, to guide clinicians in addressing menopause-related cognitive concerns and neurodegenerative disease risk for midlife women.
RECENT FINDINGS: Research highlights the benefits of lifestyle and psychosocial interventions for cognitive symptoms during the menopause transition. Addressing underlying medical and mental health conditions, as well as difficulties with sleep, chronic stress, and vasomotor symptoms, can ameliorate symptoms and reduce risk for future dementia. Cognitive changes during the menopause transition do not typically indicate dementia. A subset of women, including apolipoprotein ε4 (APOE ε4) carriers and those who experience early menopause, face heightened risk. Alzheimer's disease biomarkers are clinically available and may change in some women during the menopause transition, particularly in APOE ε4 carriers, but our understanding of these changes, as well as their relationship to menopause hormone therapy, is evolving. There is presently insufficient evidence for the role of menopause hormone therapy for the treatment of menopause-related cognitive symptoms or neurodegenerative disease prevention.
SUMMARY: While typically transient, cognitive symptoms in menopause can benefit from addressing comorbid medical and psychosocial conditions. Research into dementia risk related to changes in the menopause transition is ongoing.
Additional Links: PMID-41531227
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41531227,
year = {2026},
author = {Samudra, N and Vemuri, M and Weitlauf, J},
title = {Menopause, cognition, and Alzheimer's disease risk.},
journal = {Current opinion in obstetrics & gynecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1097/GCO.0000000000001087},
pmid = {41531227},
issn = {1473-656X},
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Cognitive symptoms are common throughout the menopause transition. This review outlines a comprehensive clinical approach, grounded in recent findings, to guide clinicians in addressing menopause-related cognitive concerns and neurodegenerative disease risk for midlife women.
RECENT FINDINGS: Research highlights the benefits of lifestyle and psychosocial interventions for cognitive symptoms during the menopause transition. Addressing underlying medical and mental health conditions, as well as difficulties with sleep, chronic stress, and vasomotor symptoms, can ameliorate symptoms and reduce risk for future dementia. Cognitive changes during the menopause transition do not typically indicate dementia. A subset of women, including apolipoprotein ε4 (APOE ε4) carriers and those who experience early menopause, face heightened risk. Alzheimer's disease biomarkers are clinically available and may change in some women during the menopause transition, particularly in APOE ε4 carriers, but our understanding of these changes, as well as their relationship to menopause hormone therapy, is evolving. There is presently insufficient evidence for the role of menopause hormone therapy for the treatment of menopause-related cognitive symptoms or neurodegenerative disease prevention.
SUMMARY: While typically transient, cognitive symptoms in menopause can benefit from addressing comorbid medical and psychosocial conditions. Research into dementia risk related to changes in the menopause transition is ongoing.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-14
Eosinophils: Pathological Mechanisms and Novel Targeted Therapeutic Strategies Across Multiple Disease Spectrums.
Journal of leukocyte biology pii:8425075 [Epub ahead of print].
Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell belonging to the granulocyte family. Their cytoplasm contains eosinophilic granules that hold various biologically active substances. They perform diverse functions, participating in inflammatory responses, immune defense, and tissue repair. Eosinophils are implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple diseases, including infectious diseases, allergic disorders, and hematological conditions. Moreover, increasing research in recent years has revealed significant associations between eosinophils and autoimmune diseases, solid tumors, coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, and even Alzheimer's disease. They participate in disease onset and progression through the release of toxic proteins, cytokines, and chemokines, as well as through interactions with other cells. Focusing on the biological characteristics and functions of eosinophils facilitates the elucidation of disease mechanisms associated with related disorders. This, in turn, provides further direction for eosinophil-targeted research and therapeutic strategies, including the research and development of drugs that modulate their function, targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and cell therapies. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the structure, function, and role of eosinophils in related diseases, along with potential future therapeutic strategies. It aims to deepen the understanding of researchers and clinicians, thereby facilitating their application in further research, as well as in clinical disease diagnosis and treatment analysis.
Additional Links: PMID-41530949
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid41530949,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, Y and Liu, Y},
title = {Eosinophils: Pathological Mechanisms and Novel Targeted Therapeutic Strategies Across Multiple Disease Spectrums.},
journal = {Journal of leukocyte biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jleuko/qiag009},
pmid = {41530949},
issn = {1938-3673},
abstract = {Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell belonging to the granulocyte family. Their cytoplasm contains eosinophilic granules that hold various biologically active substances. They perform diverse functions, participating in inflammatory responses, immune defense, and tissue repair. Eosinophils are implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple diseases, including infectious diseases, allergic disorders, and hematological conditions. Moreover, increasing research in recent years has revealed significant associations between eosinophils and autoimmune diseases, solid tumors, coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, and even Alzheimer's disease. They participate in disease onset and progression through the release of toxic proteins, cytokines, and chemokines, as well as through interactions with other cells. Focusing on the biological characteristics and functions of eosinophils facilitates the elucidation of disease mechanisms associated with related disorders. This, in turn, provides further direction for eosinophil-targeted research and therapeutic strategies, including the research and development of drugs that modulate their function, targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and cell therapies. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the structure, function, and role of eosinophils in related diseases, along with potential future therapeutic strategies. It aims to deepen the understanding of researchers and clinicians, thereby facilitating their application in further research, as well as in clinical disease diagnosis and treatment analysis.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-13
Remission is insufficient: predictors and mechanistic models of recurrence in late-life depression.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology [Epub ahead of print].
While achieving remission is the goal of acute antidepressant treatment, recurrence of new depressive episodes following remission is unfortunately common in clinical populations with Major Depressive Disorder, including older adults with Late-Life Depression (LLD). The neurobiological factors underlying this risk are poorly understood, limiting our ability to identify potential preventive mechanistic targets. Beyond the limited prognostic utility achieved from individual psychiatric history, it remains challenging to clinically stratify individual risk. This review examines factors influencing the recurrence of depressive episodes following remission in LLD, focusing on cognitive, behavioral, social, and environmental aspects. It additionally considers neuroimaging-based biomarkers related to recurrence risk as well as discussing evidence for and limits of maintenance treatment to prevent recurrence. The paper proposes possible mechanisms contributing to recurrence, including physiological and behavioral responses to stressors, the influence of Alzheimer's disease neuropathology, and conceptualizing repeat depressive episodes within the accelerated aging hypothesis of LLD. A dynamical landscape model of depression recurrence is proposed to elucidate the interplay between different mood states, resilience, and treatment response. This synthesis then highlights avenues for future research, focusing on areas of potential significance ranging from risk stratification to tertiary prevention efforts that may improve both long-term affective and cognitive symptoms.
Additional Links: PMID-41530554
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Citation:
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@article {pmid41530554,
year = {2026},
author = {Taylor, WD and Gerlach, AR and Szymkowicz, SM and Gujral, S and Andreescu, C},
title = {Remission is insufficient: predictors and mechanistic models of recurrence in late-life depression.},
journal = {Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41530554},
issn = {1740-634X},
support = {R01 MH121620/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH123662/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R33 MH122464/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; K01 MH133913/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; K23 MH125074/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH108509/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH121619/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {While achieving remission is the goal of acute antidepressant treatment, recurrence of new depressive episodes following remission is unfortunately common in clinical populations with Major Depressive Disorder, including older adults with Late-Life Depression (LLD). The neurobiological factors underlying this risk are poorly understood, limiting our ability to identify potential preventive mechanistic targets. Beyond the limited prognostic utility achieved from individual psychiatric history, it remains challenging to clinically stratify individual risk. This review examines factors influencing the recurrence of depressive episodes following remission in LLD, focusing on cognitive, behavioral, social, and environmental aspects. It additionally considers neuroimaging-based biomarkers related to recurrence risk as well as discussing evidence for and limits of maintenance treatment to prevent recurrence. The paper proposes possible mechanisms contributing to recurrence, including physiological and behavioral responses to stressors, the influence of Alzheimer's disease neuropathology, and conceptualizing repeat depressive episodes within the accelerated aging hypothesis of LLD. A dynamical landscape model of depression recurrence is proposed to elucidate the interplay between different mood states, resilience, and treatment response. This synthesis then highlights avenues for future research, focusing on areas of potential significance ranging from risk stratification to tertiary prevention efforts that may improve both long-term affective and cognitive symptoms.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-13
Assessment of clinical factors that predict response to nabilone for agitation in Alzheimer's disease: A post hoc analysis of a randomized placebo-controlled trial.
International psychogeriatrics pii:S1041-6102(26)00001-3 [Epub ahead of print].
INTRODUCTION: Previously, nabilone showed a medium effect size for treating agitation in moderate-to-severe Alzheimer's disease (AD), but response varied. These post hoc analyses aimed to identify a group of clinical characteristics that predicted treatment response.
METHODS: Data from a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial in AD agitation were used. Nineteen clinical characteristics were categorized (presence/absence) and evaluated for relation to agitation response (change on Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI)). Characteristics with a ≥ 8 point response difference between categories were included in a multivariable analysis model to calculate individual predicted response. Linear mixed-effects models with Satterthwaite's approximation evaluated the impact of treatment on the relationship between predicted and observed responses.
RESULTS: Thirty-nine participants (77 % male, mean [SD] age 87 [10.2], standardized Mini-Mental State Exam (sMMSE) 6.5 [6.8]) were enrolled. Variable selection identified five characteristics related to greater nabilone efficacy: higher pain (Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia score ≥3) (difference [SE] in CMAI response = -18.8 [3.2]), greater appetite and eating disorders (-16.4 [5.5]), greater apathy (-14.0 [5.5]), less cognitive impairment (sMMSE greater than 10) (-16.5 [4.2]) and no concomitant cholinesterase inhibitors (-13.9 [4.4]). For those with a predicted response in the top tertile based on those five characteristics, 82 % responded, compared with 40 % in the lowest tertile. A treatment-by-tertile interaction (F(2,29) = 8.48, p = 0.001) indicated observed treatment response varied across tertiles.
CONCLUSION: A reliable clinical profile of persons with AD related agitation likely to respond to nabilone may be established with additional research.
Additional Links: PMID-41530008
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@article {pmid41530008,
year = {2026},
author = {Feldman, OJ and Herrmann, N and Ruthirakuhan, M and Gallagher, D and L G Verhoeff, NP and Kiss, A and Black, SE and Lanctôt, KL},
title = {Assessment of clinical factors that predict response to nabilone for agitation in Alzheimer's disease: A post hoc analysis of a randomized placebo-controlled trial.},
journal = {International psychogeriatrics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {100183},
doi = {10.1016/j.inpsyc.2026.100183},
pmid = {41530008},
issn = {1741-203X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Previously, nabilone showed a medium effect size for treating agitation in moderate-to-severe Alzheimer's disease (AD), but response varied. These post hoc analyses aimed to identify a group of clinical characteristics that predicted treatment response.
METHODS: Data from a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial in AD agitation were used. Nineteen clinical characteristics were categorized (presence/absence) and evaluated for relation to agitation response (change on Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI)). Characteristics with a ≥ 8 point response difference between categories were included in a multivariable analysis model to calculate individual predicted response. Linear mixed-effects models with Satterthwaite's approximation evaluated the impact of treatment on the relationship between predicted and observed responses.
RESULTS: Thirty-nine participants (77 % male, mean [SD] age 87 [10.2], standardized Mini-Mental State Exam (sMMSE) 6.5 [6.8]) were enrolled. Variable selection identified five characteristics related to greater nabilone efficacy: higher pain (Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia score ≥3) (difference [SE] in CMAI response = -18.8 [3.2]), greater appetite and eating disorders (-16.4 [5.5]), greater apathy (-14.0 [5.5]), less cognitive impairment (sMMSE greater than 10) (-16.5 [4.2]) and no concomitant cholinesterase inhibitors (-13.9 [4.4]). For those with a predicted response in the top tertile based on those five characteristics, 82 % responded, compared with 40 % in the lowest tertile. A treatment-by-tertile interaction (F(2,29) = 8.48, p = 0.001) indicated observed treatment response varied across tertiles.
CONCLUSION: A reliable clinical profile of persons with AD related agitation likely to respond to nabilone may be established with additional research.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-13
CmpDate: 2026-01-13
Dietary Isoflavone Biochanin A Attenuates Aluminium Chloride-Induced Sporadic Alzheimer's Disease and Associated Neurobehavioral Alterations Through NRF2-HO1 Pathway Activation and NLRP3 Inflammasome Suppression.
Molecular neurobiology, 63(1):359.
Alzheimer's disease (AD), a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder, currently lacks effective curative treatments. Growing evidence implicates aluminium, a widely prevalent environmental metal, in the pathogenesis of AD due to its ability to induce oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, cholinergic dysfunction, and amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposition, ultimately leading to cognitive decline. Biochanin A (BCA), a naturally occurring isoflavone, exhibits well-documented antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective activities, including acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition. However, its specific therapeutic potential in AD models has remained largely unexplored. This study evaluates the protective effects of BCA against aluminium chloride (AlCl3)-induced AD-like pathology in mice. Animals received daily oral administration of AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) for 6 weeks, with or without concurrent BCA treatment (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg). During the final week, comprehensive neurobehavioral assessments were conducted. Thereafter, hippocampal tissues were analyzed for biochemical, molecular, and elemental analyses, and intact brains were examined histologically. AlCl3 exposure significantly impaired neurobehavioral performance, elevated oxidative stress, disrupted cholinergic function, intensified neuroinflammation, promoted amyloid aggregation, and induced neurodegeneration. Notably, BCA supplementation dose-dependently ameliorated these pathological alterations. BCA treatment improved neurobehavioral deficits (P < 0.05), reduced oxidative markers (P < 0.01), restored cholinergic function by lowering AChE activity (P < 0.01), attenuated inflammatory mediators (P < 0.01), reduced amyloid and aluminium deposition (P < 0.001), and alleviated AlCl3-induced neurodegeneration. Overall, our findings indicate that BCA confers neuroprotection primarily through activation of the NRF2-HO-1 signaling pathway and through suppression of the NLRP3 inflammasome, highlighting its promise as a potential therapeutic candidate for AD.
Additional Links: PMID-41528665
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@article {pmid41528665,
year = {2026},
author = {Kumar, A and Rakshit, D and Saharia, N and Tiwari, P and Mugale, MN and Mishra, A},
title = {Dietary Isoflavone Biochanin A Attenuates Aluminium Chloride-Induced Sporadic Alzheimer's Disease and Associated Neurobehavioral Alterations Through NRF2-HO1 Pathway Activation and NLRP3 Inflammasome Suppression.},
journal = {Molecular neurobiology},
volume = {63},
number = {1},
pages = {359},
pmid = {41528665},
issn = {1559-1182},
mesh = {Animals ; *Genistein/pharmacology/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; Aluminum Chloride ; *Alzheimer Disease/chemically induced/metabolism/drug therapy/pathology ; *NF-E2-Related Factor 2/metabolism ; *NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein/metabolism ; *Inflammasomes/metabolism/drug effects ; Male ; Signal Transduction/drug effects ; Mice ; Oxidative Stress/drug effects ; *Behavior, Animal/drug effects ; *Heme Oxygenase-1/metabolism ; Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism ; Neuroprotective Agents/pharmacology ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; },
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD), a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder, currently lacks effective curative treatments. Growing evidence implicates aluminium, a widely prevalent environmental metal, in the pathogenesis of AD due to its ability to induce oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, cholinergic dysfunction, and amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposition, ultimately leading to cognitive decline. Biochanin A (BCA), a naturally occurring isoflavone, exhibits well-documented antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective activities, including acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition. However, its specific therapeutic potential in AD models has remained largely unexplored. This study evaluates the protective effects of BCA against aluminium chloride (AlCl3)-induced AD-like pathology in mice. Animals received daily oral administration of AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) for 6 weeks, with or without concurrent BCA treatment (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg). During the final week, comprehensive neurobehavioral assessments were conducted. Thereafter, hippocampal tissues were analyzed for biochemical, molecular, and elemental analyses, and intact brains were examined histologically. AlCl3 exposure significantly impaired neurobehavioral performance, elevated oxidative stress, disrupted cholinergic function, intensified neuroinflammation, promoted amyloid aggregation, and induced neurodegeneration. Notably, BCA supplementation dose-dependently ameliorated these pathological alterations. BCA treatment improved neurobehavioral deficits (P < 0.05), reduced oxidative markers (P < 0.01), restored cholinergic function by lowering AChE activity (P < 0.01), attenuated inflammatory mediators (P < 0.01), reduced amyloid and aluminium deposition (P < 0.001), and alleviated AlCl3-induced neurodegeneration. Overall, our findings indicate that BCA confers neuroprotection primarily through activation of the NRF2-HO-1 signaling pathway and through suppression of the NLRP3 inflammasome, highlighting its promise as a potential therapeutic candidate for AD.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Animals
*Genistein/pharmacology/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
Aluminum Chloride
*Alzheimer Disease/chemically induced/metabolism/drug therapy/pathology
*NF-E2-Related Factor 2/metabolism
*NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein/metabolism
*Inflammasomes/metabolism/drug effects
Male
Signal Transduction/drug effects
Mice
Oxidative Stress/drug effects
*Behavior, Animal/drug effects
*Heme Oxygenase-1/metabolism
Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism
Neuroprotective Agents/pharmacology
Mice, Inbred C57BL
RevDate: 2026-01-13
Cholinesterase inhibitors for patients with dementia: Patterns of prescribing and disparities in treatment.
Journal of Alzheimer's disease : JAD [Epub ahead of print].
BackgroundCholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) are cornerstones of the symptomatic treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and are also prescribed for vascular dementia (VaD). Despite their widespread use, patterns of ChEI prescribing are unclear.ObjectiveOur objective was to examine the prevalence, timing, and types of ChEI prescriptions before and after dementia diagnosis.MethodsWe analyzed electronic health record and claims data for patients diagnosed with AD, DLB, or VaD between October 2015 and August 2022 from a large U.S. healthcare system. ChEI claims (donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine) were identified in the ±3 years surrounding dementia diagnosis. Repeated measures logistic regression was used to estimate the likelihood of ChEI fills by time-period, dementia type, and time x dementia type interaction to determine if change in prescription patterns significantly differed by diagnosis.ResultsAmong 3166 eligible patients, DLB had the highest prevalence of ChEIs both pre-and post-diagnosis compared to patients with AD and VaD. Post-diagnosis, donepezil was the most common, while galantamine use was sparse. After adjusting for demographics, patients with VaD had lower rates of ChEIs relative to AD (OR: 0.34, 95% CI 0.26-0.45). In the fully adjusted model, females (OR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.71-0.91) and patients from ethnoracially minoritized populations (OR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.62-0.88) were less likely to fill ChEI prescriptions.ConclusionsDonepezil was the most frequently filled ChEI across dementias. Patients with DLB had the highest prevalence of ChEIs pre- and post-diagnosis. The potential disparities in treatment we identified should be investigated further.
Additional Links: PMID-41527747
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@article {pmid41527747,
year = {2026},
author = {Heo, RJ and Negida, A and Barrett, MJ and Chrenka, EA and Bayram, E and Kane, JPM and Werner, AM and Rossom, RC and Wyman-Chick, KA},
title = {Cholinesterase inhibitors for patients with dementia: Patterns of prescribing and disparities in treatment.},
journal = {Journal of Alzheimer's disease : JAD},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {13872877251411418},
doi = {10.1177/13872877251411418},
pmid = {41527747},
issn = {1875-8908},
abstract = {BackgroundCholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) are cornerstones of the symptomatic treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and are also prescribed for vascular dementia (VaD). Despite their widespread use, patterns of ChEI prescribing are unclear.ObjectiveOur objective was to examine the prevalence, timing, and types of ChEI prescriptions before and after dementia diagnosis.MethodsWe analyzed electronic health record and claims data for patients diagnosed with AD, DLB, or VaD between October 2015 and August 2022 from a large U.S. healthcare system. ChEI claims (donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine) were identified in the ±3 years surrounding dementia diagnosis. Repeated measures logistic regression was used to estimate the likelihood of ChEI fills by time-period, dementia type, and time x dementia type interaction to determine if change in prescription patterns significantly differed by diagnosis.ResultsAmong 3166 eligible patients, DLB had the highest prevalence of ChEIs both pre-and post-diagnosis compared to patients with AD and VaD. Post-diagnosis, donepezil was the most common, while galantamine use was sparse. After adjusting for demographics, patients with VaD had lower rates of ChEIs relative to AD (OR: 0.34, 95% CI 0.26-0.45). In the fully adjusted model, females (OR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.71-0.91) and patients from ethnoracially minoritized populations (OR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.62-0.88) were less likely to fill ChEI prescriptions.ConclusionsDonepezil was the most frequently filled ChEI across dementias. Patients with DLB had the highest prevalence of ChEIs pre- and post-diagnosis. The potential disparities in treatment we identified should be investigated further.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-13
Insights into phosphoproteomic studies and prospects of phosphoproteins as biomarkers for brain disorders.
Journal of Alzheimer's disease : JAD [Epub ahead of print].
The dysregulation of phosphorylation networks plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of a wide spectrum of brain disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, ischemic stroke, drug abuse, major depressive disorder, and schizophrenia. Notably, phosphorylated isoforms of microtubule-associated protein tau and neurofilament heavy polypeptide are already utilized in clinical diagnostics, highlighting the promise of protein phosphorylation signatures as biomarkers for prediction, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment monitoring. Recent advances in deep phosphoproteomic technologies now facilitate the comprehensive mapping of phosphorylation alterations across diverse biological samples and disease stages. This review summarizes current phosphoproteomic studies aimed at identifying biomarkers for brain disorders and elaborates on the promising application of phosphorylated proteins in this context.
Additional Links: PMID-41527739
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@article {pmid41527739,
year = {2026},
author = {Le, J and Hu, X and Jiang, Y and Wang, Q and Ma, Q and Cui, W},
title = {Insights into phosphoproteomic studies and prospects of phosphoproteins as biomarkers for brain disorders.},
journal = {Journal of Alzheimer's disease : JAD},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {13872877251411546},
doi = {10.1177/13872877251411546},
pmid = {41527739},
issn = {1875-8908},
abstract = {The dysregulation of phosphorylation networks plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of a wide spectrum of brain disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, ischemic stroke, drug abuse, major depressive disorder, and schizophrenia. Notably, phosphorylated isoforms of microtubule-associated protein tau and neurofilament heavy polypeptide are already utilized in clinical diagnostics, highlighting the promise of protein phosphorylation signatures as biomarkers for prediction, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment monitoring. Recent advances in deep phosphoproteomic technologies now facilitate the comprehensive mapping of phosphorylation alterations across diverse biological samples and disease stages. This review summarizes current phosphoproteomic studies aimed at identifying biomarkers for brain disorders and elaborates on the promising application of phosphorylated proteins in this context.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-13
The complexity of dementia development and its comorbidities: The collaborative cross-mouse population for multivarious tasks approach.
Animal models and experimental medicine [Epub ahead of print].
The rising incidence of dementia and associated neurodegenerative disorders poses a growing public health challenge. These conditions have traditionally been studied as isolated central nervous system disorders; however, emerging evidence suggests that broader systemic factors, including chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, metabolic dysfunction, and genetic susceptibility, may also play a role. This review examines the interconnection between autoimmune diseases and metabolic syndromes in the pathogenesis and exacerbation of neurodegeneration. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and type 1 diabetes mellitus have been associated with a heightened risk of developing dementia through chronic immune activation, blood-brain barrier disruption, and neuroinflammatory signaling. Similarly, metabolic disorders such as diabesity promote insulin resistance and oxidative stress, accelerating cognitive decline. The review also discusses glaucoma as a neurodegenerative condition with autoimmune features, underscoring the need for expanded classification and treatment strategies. A key focus is the utilization of the Collaborative Cross (CC) mouse model, which enables the study of gene-environment interactions across genetically diverse backgrounds. Findings from CC mice reveal strain-dependent susceptibility to inflammation, cognitive impairment, and gut-brain axis dysfunction, providing a translational bridge to human variability. This review highlights the importance of integrating precision-based approaches to dementia research that consider systemic influences. Advancing our understanding of these multiorgan interactions holds potential for designing precision-based therapeutic approaches to postpone the onset or reduce the incidence of neurodegenerative conditions.
Additional Links: PMID-41527682
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41527682,
year = {2026},
author = {Zohud, O and Lone, IM and Midlej, K and Iraqi, FA},
title = {The complexity of dementia development and its comorbidities: The collaborative cross-mouse population for multivarious tasks approach.},
journal = {Animal models and experimental medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ame2.70131},
pmid = {41527682},
issn = {2576-2095},
support = {//A core fund from Tel Aviv University/ ; },
abstract = {The rising incidence of dementia and associated neurodegenerative disorders poses a growing public health challenge. These conditions have traditionally been studied as isolated central nervous system disorders; however, emerging evidence suggests that broader systemic factors, including chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, metabolic dysfunction, and genetic susceptibility, may also play a role. This review examines the interconnection between autoimmune diseases and metabolic syndromes in the pathogenesis and exacerbation of neurodegeneration. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and type 1 diabetes mellitus have been associated with a heightened risk of developing dementia through chronic immune activation, blood-brain barrier disruption, and neuroinflammatory signaling. Similarly, metabolic disorders such as diabesity promote insulin resistance and oxidative stress, accelerating cognitive decline. The review also discusses glaucoma as a neurodegenerative condition with autoimmune features, underscoring the need for expanded classification and treatment strategies. A key focus is the utilization of the Collaborative Cross (CC) mouse model, which enables the study of gene-environment interactions across genetically diverse backgrounds. Findings from CC mice reveal strain-dependent susceptibility to inflammation, cognitive impairment, and gut-brain axis dysfunction, providing a translational bridge to human variability. This review highlights the importance of integrating precision-based approaches to dementia research that consider systemic influences. Advancing our understanding of these multiorgan interactions holds potential for designing precision-based therapeutic approaches to postpone the onset or reduce the incidence of neurodegenerative conditions.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-15
CmpDate: 2026-01-13
Preclinical evidence and therapeutic perspectives on carnosine for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.
AIMS neuroscience, 12(4):444-513.
Carnosine (β-alanyl-L-histidine) is an endogenous dipeptide widely distributed in mammalian tissues, especially skeletal and cardiac muscle cells, and, to a lesser extent, in the brain. While early interest in carnosine was given because of its role in muscle cell metabolism and athletic performance, it has more recently gained attention for its potential application in several chronic diseases. Specifically, brain aging and neurodegenerative disorders have received particular attention, as a marked reduction in carnosine levels has been described in these conditions. Carnosine exerts a wide range of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-glycation, metal-chelating, and neuroprotective properties. Mechanistically, it acts by inhibiting the production of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), buffering cellular pH, and regulating intracellular nitric oxide signaling and mitochondrial function. Its safety profile, the lack of toxicity, and significant side effects support its application for long-term therapeutic use. In this review, we aim to recapitulate and discuss the effects, dosages, and administration routes of carnosine in preclinical in vivo models, with a particular focus on neurodegenerative disorders where it has been shown to reduce oxidative stress, suppress neuroinflammation, modulate protein aggregation, and preserve cognitive function, all key features of neurodegeneration. Despite promising findings, there are gaps in the knowledge on how carnosine affects synaptic plasticity, neuronal remodeling, and other processes that play a central role in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders. Additionally, clinical translation remains challenging due to inconsistencies across in vivo studies in terms of dosage, treatment duration, routes of administration, and disease models, which affect reproducibility and cross-study comparability. Therefore, while carnosine emerges as a multifunctional and well-tolerated molecule, further research is needed to clarify its therapeutic relevance in human diseases. In this review, we also address future perspectives and key methodological challenges that must be overcome to effectively translate carnosine's biological potential into clinical practice.
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@article {pmid41527663,
year = {2025},
author = {Barbati, SA and Carota, G and Partsinevelos, K and Di Pietro, L and Privitera, A and Cardaci, V and Graziani, A and Mangione, R and Lazzarino, G and Tavazzi, B and Di Pietro, V and Maiani, E and Bellia, F and Amorini, AM and Lazzarino, G and Baba, SP and Caruso, G},
title = {Preclinical evidence and therapeutic perspectives on carnosine for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.},
journal = {AIMS neuroscience},
volume = {12},
number = {4},
pages = {444-513},
pmid = {41527663},
issn = {2373-7972},
abstract = {Carnosine (β-alanyl-L-histidine) is an endogenous dipeptide widely distributed in mammalian tissues, especially skeletal and cardiac muscle cells, and, to a lesser extent, in the brain. While early interest in carnosine was given because of its role in muscle cell metabolism and athletic performance, it has more recently gained attention for its potential application in several chronic diseases. Specifically, brain aging and neurodegenerative disorders have received particular attention, as a marked reduction in carnosine levels has been described in these conditions. Carnosine exerts a wide range of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-glycation, metal-chelating, and neuroprotective properties. Mechanistically, it acts by inhibiting the production of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), buffering cellular pH, and regulating intracellular nitric oxide signaling and mitochondrial function. Its safety profile, the lack of toxicity, and significant side effects support its application for long-term therapeutic use. In this review, we aim to recapitulate and discuss the effects, dosages, and administration routes of carnosine in preclinical in vivo models, with a particular focus on neurodegenerative disorders where it has been shown to reduce oxidative stress, suppress neuroinflammation, modulate protein aggregation, and preserve cognitive function, all key features of neurodegeneration. Despite promising findings, there are gaps in the knowledge on how carnosine affects synaptic plasticity, neuronal remodeling, and other processes that play a central role in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders. Additionally, clinical translation remains challenging due to inconsistencies across in vivo studies in terms of dosage, treatment duration, routes of administration, and disease models, which affect reproducibility and cross-study comparability. Therefore, while carnosine emerges as a multifunctional and well-tolerated molecule, further research is needed to clarify its therapeutic relevance in human diseases. In this review, we also address future perspectives and key methodological challenges that must be overcome to effectively translate carnosine's biological potential into clinical practice.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-16
CmpDate: 2026-01-13
Next-generation Alzheimer's therapeutics: target assessment and enablement at the Indiana University School of Medicine-Purdue University TREAT-AD Center.
Alzheimer's & dementia : the journal of the Alzheimer's Association, 22(1):e70964.
The incidence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) continues to increase, despite decades of effort to develop disease-modifying therapies. In response, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) established the TaRget Enablement to Accelerate Therapy Development for Alzheimer's Disease (TREAT-AD) centers to address the gap between basic research and translational drug discovery. Situated within a robust AD research environment, the Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM)-Purdue University TREAT-AD Center is one of two National Institutes of Health (NIH)-supported centers funded to accomplish this mission. With a focus on novel biological targets beyond amyloid and tau, our center has assembled the necessary components of a drug discovery engine: project and data management, bioinformatics and computational science, structural biology and biochemistry, assay development and pharmacology, and molecular design and synthesis of small molecules, antibodies, and oligonucleotides. Our objective is to deliver Target Enabling Packages (TEPs) within an open science framework, making data, methods, and research tools broadly accessible through the AD Knowledge Portal. HIGHLIGHTS: The Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM)-Purdue TREAT-AD Center develops Target Enabling Packages (TEPs) to advance novel targets for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The center is overseen by an administrative core and operates through four technical cores - bioinformatics, structural biology, assay development, and medicinal chemistry - within a milestone-driven and open science framework. Multi-omics, systems biology, and machine learning (ML) approaches guide the nomination of high-priority targets beyond amyloid and tau. Cross-core workflows provide structural insights into novel biological targets, validated assays, biomarkers, and molecular probes that enable lead optimization. All data, methods, and tools are openly shared through the AD Knowledge Portal to accelerate global efforts in AD drug discovery.
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@article {pmid41527522,
year = {2026},
author = {Richardson, TI and Klein, RC and Huang, K and Zhang, J and Mesecar, AD and Dage, JL and Clayton, B and Lamb, BT and Palkowitz, AD},
title = {Next-generation Alzheimer's therapeutics: target assessment and enablement at the Indiana University School of Medicine-Purdue University TREAT-AD Center.},
journal = {Alzheimer's & dementia : the journal of the Alzheimer's Association},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {e70964},
pmid = {41527522},
issn = {1552-5279},
support = {U54AG065181/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy ; Humans ; *Drug Discovery/methods ; Indiana ; United States ; National Institute on Aging (U.S.) ; Schools, Medical ; },
abstract = {The incidence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) continues to increase, despite decades of effort to develop disease-modifying therapies. In response, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) established the TaRget Enablement to Accelerate Therapy Development for Alzheimer's Disease (TREAT-AD) centers to address the gap between basic research and translational drug discovery. Situated within a robust AD research environment, the Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM)-Purdue University TREAT-AD Center is one of two National Institutes of Health (NIH)-supported centers funded to accomplish this mission. With a focus on novel biological targets beyond amyloid and tau, our center has assembled the necessary components of a drug discovery engine: project and data management, bioinformatics and computational science, structural biology and biochemistry, assay development and pharmacology, and molecular design and synthesis of small molecules, antibodies, and oligonucleotides. Our objective is to deliver Target Enabling Packages (TEPs) within an open science framework, making data, methods, and research tools broadly accessible through the AD Knowledge Portal. HIGHLIGHTS: The Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM)-Purdue TREAT-AD Center develops Target Enabling Packages (TEPs) to advance novel targets for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The center is overseen by an administrative core and operates through four technical cores - bioinformatics, structural biology, assay development, and medicinal chemistry - within a milestone-driven and open science framework. Multi-omics, systems biology, and machine learning (ML) approaches guide the nomination of high-priority targets beyond amyloid and tau. Cross-core workflows provide structural insights into novel biological targets, validated assays, biomarkers, and molecular probes that enable lead optimization. All data, methods, and tools are openly shared through the AD Knowledge Portal to accelerate global efforts in AD drug discovery.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy
Humans
*Drug Discovery/methods
Indiana
United States
National Institute on Aging (U.S.)
Schools, Medical
RevDate: 2026-01-13
CmpDate: 2026-01-13
Microwave-Assisted Synthesis and In Vitro Anti-Alzheimer Evaluation of Novel 1,3,5-Triazine-Nicotinic Hydrazide Derivatives as Acetylcholinesterase and Butyrylcholinesterase Inhibitors.
Journal of biochemical and molecular toxicology, 40(1):e70685.
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder posing major global health challenges due to its complex pathophysiology and increasing prevalence among the elderly. In the present work, the molecular hybridization technique was utilized to design and synthesize nicotinic hydrazide-1,3,5-triazine hybrids. Accordingly, this study aimed to design, perform in silico screening, synthesize, and evaluate the in vitro and in vivo anti-AD potential of the proposed compounds. Docking studies revealed that the compounds displayed key interactions with catalytic site and peripheral anionic site residues. Based on binding affinity, ten compounds were synthesized and characterized using different spectroscopic techniques. In vitro AChE and BChE inhibitory assays revealed that the compound 4A36 showed the highest inhibitory ability with log IC50 values of 5.97 μM against AChE and 4.57 μM against BChE. In addition, cytotoxicity screening revealed that 4A36 was non-toxic in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells in the concentration range of 15.625-250 µg/mL. Acute oral toxicity evaluation of the compound revealed no adverse effects up to 175 mg/kg b.w. Further, in vivo studies using the scopolamine-induced model further validated the therapeutic promise of the compound. At a dose of 30 mg/kg b.w., the compound demonstrated significant improvements in learning and memory, reduced MDA levels with concurrent elevation of antioxidant enzymes SOD and Catalase, and reduced AChE activity in hippocampal tissue. Histopathological observations revealed that treatment groups, especially at higher dose (30 mg/kg b.w.), preserved the granular layer of the dentate gyrus and improved neuronal integrity compared to the disease control. These findings indicate that 4A36 at a dose of 30 mg/kg b.w. may be considered as a promising lead compound in AD.
Additional Links: PMID-41527496
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid41527496,
year = {2026},
author = {Kalita, T and Shakya, A and Ghosh, SK and Singh, UP and Bhat, HR},
title = {Microwave-Assisted Synthesis and In Vitro Anti-Alzheimer Evaluation of Novel 1,3,5-Triazine-Nicotinic Hydrazide Derivatives as Acetylcholinesterase and Butyrylcholinesterase Inhibitors.},
journal = {Journal of biochemical and molecular toxicology},
volume = {40},
number = {1},
pages = {e70685},
doi = {10.1002/jbt.70685},
pmid = {41527496},
issn = {1099-0461},
mesh = {*Cholinesterase Inhibitors/pharmacology/chemical synthesis/chemistry ; *Butyrylcholinesterase/metabolism/chemistry ; *Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/enzymology ; *Acetylcholinesterase/metabolism/chemistry ; Animals ; Humans ; *Triazines/chemistry/pharmacology/chemical synthesis ; *Microwaves ; Cell Line, Tumor ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; Male ; *Hydrazines/chemistry/pharmacology/chemical synthesis ; Rats ; },
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder posing major global health challenges due to its complex pathophysiology and increasing prevalence among the elderly. In the present work, the molecular hybridization technique was utilized to design and synthesize nicotinic hydrazide-1,3,5-triazine hybrids. Accordingly, this study aimed to design, perform in silico screening, synthesize, and evaluate the in vitro and in vivo anti-AD potential of the proposed compounds. Docking studies revealed that the compounds displayed key interactions with catalytic site and peripheral anionic site residues. Based on binding affinity, ten compounds were synthesized and characterized using different spectroscopic techniques. In vitro AChE and BChE inhibitory assays revealed that the compound 4A36 showed the highest inhibitory ability with log IC50 values of 5.97 μM against AChE and 4.57 μM against BChE. In addition, cytotoxicity screening revealed that 4A36 was non-toxic in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells in the concentration range of 15.625-250 µg/mL. Acute oral toxicity evaluation of the compound revealed no adverse effects up to 175 mg/kg b.w. Further, in vivo studies using the scopolamine-induced model further validated the therapeutic promise of the compound. At a dose of 30 mg/kg b.w., the compound demonstrated significant improvements in learning and memory, reduced MDA levels with concurrent elevation of antioxidant enzymes SOD and Catalase, and reduced AChE activity in hippocampal tissue. Histopathological observations revealed that treatment groups, especially at higher dose (30 mg/kg b.w.), preserved the granular layer of the dentate gyrus and improved neuronal integrity compared to the disease control. These findings indicate that 4A36 at a dose of 30 mg/kg b.w. may be considered as a promising lead compound in AD.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Cholinesterase Inhibitors/pharmacology/chemical synthesis/chemistry
*Butyrylcholinesterase/metabolism/chemistry
*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/enzymology
*Acetylcholinesterase/metabolism/chemistry
Animals
Humans
*Triazines/chemistry/pharmacology/chemical synthesis
*Microwaves
Cell Line, Tumor
Molecular Docking Simulation
Male
*Hydrazines/chemistry/pharmacology/chemical synthesis
Rats
RevDate: 2026-01-13
Pharmacological management of agitation in dementia: An evidence-based review with expert consensus.
Journal of the Chinese Medical Association : JCMA pii:02118582-990000000-00614 [Epub ahead of print].
Agitation is a frequently occurring and challenging neuropsychiatric symptom of Alzheimer's disease (AD) that substantially affects quality of life, caregiver burden, and healthcare utilization. Non-pharmacological interventions, especially trigger identification, environmental adjustments, and supportive activities, remain the first-line approach for treating agitation. Pharmacological treatment should be considered only when non-drug measures are insufficient or when agitation causes severe distress or safety risks. This consensus integrates evidence up to June 2025, the Taiwan Ministry of Health and Welfare approvals, and Taipei Veterans General Hospital expert opinion. Among the approved agents, brexpiprazole demonstrated the strongest evidence and most favorable safety profile. Risperidone and aripiprazole are effective, but require careful monitoring for cerebrovascular and extrapyramidal risks. Selected antidepressants, particularly citalopram and agomelatine, should be considered when safety is prioritized. Anticonvulsants, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, and memantine have limited efficacy and should be reserved for refractory cases. Long-term or routine pharmacological use is not supported by current evidence. Future research should focus on identifying responsive patient subgroups, optimizing dosing strategies, and integrating medications into individualized, multidisciplinary care plans.
Additional Links: PMID-41527161
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41527161,
year = {2026},
author = {Cheng, CM and Tsai, MJ and Tseng, CC and Lin, YS and Lin, YS and Chen, LY and Liu, MN and Fuh, JL},
title = {Pharmacological management of agitation in dementia: An evidence-based review with expert consensus.},
journal = {Journal of the Chinese Medical Association : JCMA},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1097/JCMA.0000000000001342},
pmid = {41527161},
issn = {1728-7731},
abstract = {Agitation is a frequently occurring and challenging neuropsychiatric symptom of Alzheimer's disease (AD) that substantially affects quality of life, caregiver burden, and healthcare utilization. Non-pharmacological interventions, especially trigger identification, environmental adjustments, and supportive activities, remain the first-line approach for treating agitation. Pharmacological treatment should be considered only when non-drug measures are insufficient or when agitation causes severe distress or safety risks. This consensus integrates evidence up to June 2025, the Taiwan Ministry of Health and Welfare approvals, and Taipei Veterans General Hospital expert opinion. Among the approved agents, brexpiprazole demonstrated the strongest evidence and most favorable safety profile. Risperidone and aripiprazole are effective, but require careful monitoring for cerebrovascular and extrapyramidal risks. Selected antidepressants, particularly citalopram and agomelatine, should be considered when safety is prioritized. Anticonvulsants, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, and memantine have limited efficacy and should be reserved for refractory cases. Long-term or routine pharmacological use is not supported by current evidence. Future research should focus on identifying responsive patient subgroups, optimizing dosing strategies, and integrating medications into individualized, multidisciplinary care plans.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-16
CmpDate: 2026-01-12
Early prediction of Alzheimer's disease using longitudinal electronic health records of US military veterans.
Communications medicine, 6(1):23.
BACKGROUND: Early prediction of Alzheimer's disease is important for timely intervention and treatment. We examine whether machine learning on longitudinal electronic health record notes can improve early prediction of Alzheimer's disease.
METHODS: From Veterans Health Administration records (2000 to 2022), we studied 61,537 individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and 234,105 without, aged 45-103 years, 98.4% were male. From clinical notes, we quantified the frequency of subjective cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease-related keywords, and applied statistical machine learning models to assess their ability to predict future diagnosis.
RESULTS: Here we show that Alzheimer's-related keywords (e.g., "concentration," "speaking"), occur more often in notes of individuals who later develop Alzheimer's disease than in controls. In the 15 years preceding diagnosis, cases demonstrate an exponential increase in keyword mentions (from 9.4 to 57.7 per year), whereas controls show a slower, linear increase (8.2 to 20.3). These trends are consistent across demographic subgroups. Random forest models using these keywords for prediction achieve an area under receiver operating characteristic curve from 0.577 at ten years before diagnosis to 0.861 one day before diagnosis, consistently outperforming models using only structured data.
CONCLUSIONS: Signs and symptoms of early Alzheimer's disease are reported in clinical notes many years before a clinical diagnosis is made and the frequency of these signs and symptoms, approximated by keywords, increases the closer one is to the diagnosis. A simple keyword-based approach can capture these signals and can help identify individuals at high risk of future Alzheimer's disease.
Additional Links: PMID-41526725
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41526725,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, R and Berlowitz, D and Mez, J and Silver, B and Wang, X and Hu, W and Goodwin, R and Keating, H and Liu, W and Lin, H and Yu, H},
title = {Early prediction of Alzheimer's disease using longitudinal electronic health records of US military veterans.},
journal = {Communications medicine},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {23},
pmid = {41526725},
issn = {2730-664X},
support = {I01 HX003711/HX/HSRD VA/United States ; I01 HX003969/HX/HSRD VA/United States ; R01 AG080670/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DA056470/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Early prediction of Alzheimer's disease is important for timely intervention and treatment. We examine whether machine learning on longitudinal electronic health record notes can improve early prediction of Alzheimer's disease.
METHODS: From Veterans Health Administration records (2000 to 2022), we studied 61,537 individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and 234,105 without, aged 45-103 years, 98.4% were male. From clinical notes, we quantified the frequency of subjective cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease-related keywords, and applied statistical machine learning models to assess their ability to predict future diagnosis.
RESULTS: Here we show that Alzheimer's-related keywords (e.g., "concentration," "speaking"), occur more often in notes of individuals who later develop Alzheimer's disease than in controls. In the 15 years preceding diagnosis, cases demonstrate an exponential increase in keyword mentions (from 9.4 to 57.7 per year), whereas controls show a slower, linear increase (8.2 to 20.3). These trends are consistent across demographic subgroups. Random forest models using these keywords for prediction achieve an area under receiver operating characteristic curve from 0.577 at ten years before diagnosis to 0.861 one day before diagnosis, consistently outperforming models using only structured data.
CONCLUSIONS: Signs and symptoms of early Alzheimer's disease are reported in clinical notes many years before a clinical diagnosis is made and the frequency of these signs and symptoms, approximated by keywords, increases the closer one is to the diagnosis. A simple keyword-based approach can capture these signals and can help identify individuals at high risk of future Alzheimer's disease.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-14
CmpDate: 2026-01-12
The effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists on cognition in nondiabetic patients with mild cognitive impairment or alzheimer's disease: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology, 47(1):149.
BACKGROUND: Currently, the cognitive impact of Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) remains unclear in non-diabetic patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), despite their widespread use for type 2 diabetes. This meta-analysis summarized cognitive outcomes from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of GLP-1 RAs in non-diabetic patients with AD or MCI.
METHODS: PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase were searched for studies through October 27, 2024. Pooled standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using random-effects models. Sensitivity analyses addressed variations in cognitive assessment methodologies. Between-study heterogeneity was evaluated using the I² index.
RESULTS: Four RCTs comprising 112 patients (61 placebo, 51 treatment) were included. For cognitive tests where higher scores indicate better outcomes, no significant difference was observed between GLP-1 RA and placebo groups (pooled SMD: -0.10, 95% CI: -0.53, 0.34; I² = 23.9%). Sensitivity analyses yielded consistent results. Analysis of the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive subscale from two studies, where lower scores indicate better outcomes, similarly showed no significant treatment effect (SMD: 0.07, 95% CI: -0.47, 0.62; I² = 0%).
CONCLUSION: There was no evidence that GLP-1 RAs improved cognitive outcomes compared to placebo in non-diabetic patients with AD or MCI. Further research is needed to clarify their neuroprotective potential and explore alternative therapeutic strategies for cognitive decline.
Additional Links: PMID-41524953
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41524953,
year = {2026},
author = {O'Mara, A and Mody, BP and Mammi, M and Simjian, T and Ghattas, K and Kaliki, S and Le, NPM and Liew, A and Migliore, M and Mekary, RA},
title = {The effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists on cognition in nondiabetic patients with mild cognitive impairment or alzheimer's disease: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.},
journal = {Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology},
volume = {47},
number = {1},
pages = {149},
pmid = {41524953},
issn = {1590-3478},
mesh = {Humans ; *Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/drug therapy ; *Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *Cognition/drug effects ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Currently, the cognitive impact of Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) remains unclear in non-diabetic patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), despite their widespread use for type 2 diabetes. This meta-analysis summarized cognitive outcomes from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of GLP-1 RAs in non-diabetic patients with AD or MCI.
METHODS: PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase were searched for studies through October 27, 2024. Pooled standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using random-effects models. Sensitivity analyses addressed variations in cognitive assessment methodologies. Between-study heterogeneity was evaluated using the I² index.
RESULTS: Four RCTs comprising 112 patients (61 placebo, 51 treatment) were included. For cognitive tests where higher scores indicate better outcomes, no significant difference was observed between GLP-1 RA and placebo groups (pooled SMD: -0.10, 95% CI: -0.53, 0.34; I² = 23.9%). Sensitivity analyses yielded consistent results. Analysis of the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive subscale from two studies, where lower scores indicate better outcomes, similarly showed no significant treatment effect (SMD: 0.07, 95% CI: -0.47, 0.62; I² = 0%).
CONCLUSION: There was no evidence that GLP-1 RAs improved cognitive outcomes compared to placebo in non-diabetic patients with AD or MCI. Further research is needed to clarify their neuroprotective potential and explore alternative therapeutic strategies for cognitive decline.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy
*Cognitive Dysfunction/drug therapy
*Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*Cognition/drug effects
RevDate: 2026-01-12
CmpDate: 2026-01-12
Valacyclovir Mitigates Amyloid Plaque Deposition, P-Tau Aggregation, and Neuroinflammation in Streptozotocin induced Alzheimer's Disease Rat Model.
Molecular neurobiology, 63(1):356.
Alzheimer's Disease (AD), a leading cause of dementia, is a known neurodegenerative disorder. Affecting millions of people worldwide, AD pathogenesis involves diverse risk factors such as lifestyle, environmental, and metabolic conditions that accelerate sporadic AD. Very recently, backed with substantial evidence, herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) has been recognized as a potential causative factor that may play a pivotal role in sporadic AD. Latent virus is estimated to activate key underlying pathways, preferably Aβ and p-tau, to cause AD. Additionally, Antivirals such as Valacyclovir have emerged to impart a potential neuroprotective role in AD. Present research aimed to explore the neuroprotective role and mechanism of Valacyclovir in the streptozotocin-induced Alzheimer's disease model in rats. A single dose of 3 mg/kg ICV (intracerebroventricular) Streptozotocin (STZ) was administered to induce AD in rats. Two doses of Valacyclovir, i.e., 100 mg/kg and 150 mg/kg were evaluated with Donepezil 5 mg/kg as standard. Post 21 days of treatment, Valacyclovir demonstrated dose-dependent improvement in neurobehavioral parameters. Further, AD-specific parameters i.e. Aβ1-40 and Aβ1-42, p-tau, and BACE-1 were significantly (p < 0.001) reduced with parallel reduction in inflammatory (p < 0.001) and oxidative stress markers. Additionally, Valacyclovir also increased the levels of amyloid clearance enzymes i.e., neprilysin (NEP) (p < 0.001) and insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) (p < 0.001). Results suggest promising neuroprotective action of valacyclovir via reducing Aβ-amyloid protein, p-Tau, BACE-1, as well as demonstrating anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.
Additional Links: PMID-41524814
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41524814,
year = {2026},
author = {Tripathi, P and Shah, J},
title = {Valacyclovir Mitigates Amyloid Plaque Deposition, P-Tau Aggregation, and Neuroinflammation in Streptozotocin induced Alzheimer's Disease Rat Model.},
journal = {Molecular neurobiology},
volume = {63},
number = {1},
pages = {356},
pmid = {41524814},
issn = {1559-1182},
support = {GSBTM/MD/PROJECTS/SSA/4887/2016-17//Gujarat State Biotechnology Mission, Government of Gujarat, India./ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/chemically induced/metabolism/pathology ; *tau Proteins/metabolism ; Streptozocin ; Male ; *Valacyclovir/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Disease Models, Animal ; *Plaque, Amyloid/drug therapy/metabolism/pathology ; *Neuroinflammatory Diseases/drug therapy/metabolism/pathology ; Rats ; Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism ; Rats, Wistar ; *Protein Aggregates/drug effects ; Neuroprotective Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Oxidative Stress/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Alzheimer's Disease (AD), a leading cause of dementia, is a known neurodegenerative disorder. Affecting millions of people worldwide, AD pathogenesis involves diverse risk factors such as lifestyle, environmental, and metabolic conditions that accelerate sporadic AD. Very recently, backed with substantial evidence, herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) has been recognized as a potential causative factor that may play a pivotal role in sporadic AD. Latent virus is estimated to activate key underlying pathways, preferably Aβ and p-tau, to cause AD. Additionally, Antivirals such as Valacyclovir have emerged to impart a potential neuroprotective role in AD. Present research aimed to explore the neuroprotective role and mechanism of Valacyclovir in the streptozotocin-induced Alzheimer's disease model in rats. A single dose of 3 mg/kg ICV (intracerebroventricular) Streptozotocin (STZ) was administered to induce AD in rats. Two doses of Valacyclovir, i.e., 100 mg/kg and 150 mg/kg were evaluated with Donepezil 5 mg/kg as standard. Post 21 days of treatment, Valacyclovir demonstrated dose-dependent improvement in neurobehavioral parameters. Further, AD-specific parameters i.e. Aβ1-40 and Aβ1-42, p-tau, and BACE-1 were significantly (p < 0.001) reduced with parallel reduction in inflammatory (p < 0.001) and oxidative stress markers. Additionally, Valacyclovir also increased the levels of amyloid clearance enzymes i.e., neprilysin (NEP) (p < 0.001) and insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) (p < 0.001). Results suggest promising neuroprotective action of valacyclovir via reducing Aβ-amyloid protein, p-Tau, BACE-1, as well as demonstrating anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Animals
*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/chemically induced/metabolism/pathology
*tau Proteins/metabolism
Streptozocin
Male
*Valacyclovir/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Disease Models, Animal
*Plaque, Amyloid/drug therapy/metabolism/pathology
*Neuroinflammatory Diseases/drug therapy/metabolism/pathology
Rats
Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism
Rats, Wistar
*Protein Aggregates/drug effects
Neuroprotective Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Oxidative Stress/drug effects
RevDate: 2026-01-12
Aloe-emodin attenuated Aβ-induced tau phosphorylation by autophagy-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway.
Neuroreport pii:00001756-990000000-00426 [Epub ahead of print].
OBJECTIVE: Anthraquinone derivative aloe-emodin, extracted from Chinese herbs has been confirmed with various pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, particularly in Alzheimer's disease, but the exact mechanism of action remains unclear.
METHODS: In this study, the PC12 cells were induced by amyloid β-protein (Aβ) to establish an in vitro model of Alzheimer's disease. The 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine staining, transmission electron microscopy, real-time quantitative PCR, western blot, ELISA, coimmunoprecipitation (Co-IP), and immunofluorescence were employed to evaluate effect of aloe-emodin on the survival and expression of related genes and proteins in PC12 cells induced by Aβ.
RESULTS: We found that 5 μM aloe-emodin significantly enhanced cell survival and proliferation. It also increased the mRNA and protein expression of Beclin-1 and LC3II, while decreasing the mRNA expression of P62, PI3K, AKT, mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), and caspase-1, as well as the protein expression of P62, NLRP3, cleaved-caspase-1, p-PI3K, p-AKT, p-mTOR, interleukin-18 (IL-18), and IL-1β. Additionally, aloe-emodin reduced the intensity of p-tau fluorescence. The Co-IP results demonstrated a direct interaction between NLRP3 and LC3. Interestingly, aloe-emodin exhibited effects comparable to those of RAPA, an mTOR inhibitor.
CONCLUSION: These findings demonstrate that aloe-emodin offers neuroprotective benefits by reducing NLRP3-mediated inflammation and promoting autophagy, thereby providing a novel perspective on the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Additional Links: PMID-41524585
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41524585,
year = {2026},
author = {Hu, G and Li, W and Lei, X and Yao, Y and Ye, S},
title = {Aloe-emodin attenuated Aβ-induced tau phosphorylation by autophagy-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway.},
journal = {Neuroreport},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1097/WNR.0000000000002246},
pmid = {41524585},
issn = {1473-558X},
support = {82205235//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2022AH050502//The Key Project Foundation of Natural Science Research of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine/ ; 2022rcyb028//The Talent Support Program of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ ; YQYB2024028//Anhui Province 2024 Action Project for Training Young and Middle aged Teachers in Universities/ ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Anthraquinone derivative aloe-emodin, extracted from Chinese herbs has been confirmed with various pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, particularly in Alzheimer's disease, but the exact mechanism of action remains unclear.
METHODS: In this study, the PC12 cells were induced by amyloid β-protein (Aβ) to establish an in vitro model of Alzheimer's disease. The 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine staining, transmission electron microscopy, real-time quantitative PCR, western blot, ELISA, coimmunoprecipitation (Co-IP), and immunofluorescence were employed to evaluate effect of aloe-emodin on the survival and expression of related genes and proteins in PC12 cells induced by Aβ.
RESULTS: We found that 5 μM aloe-emodin significantly enhanced cell survival and proliferation. It also increased the mRNA and protein expression of Beclin-1 and LC3II, while decreasing the mRNA expression of P62, PI3K, AKT, mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), and caspase-1, as well as the protein expression of P62, NLRP3, cleaved-caspase-1, p-PI3K, p-AKT, p-mTOR, interleukin-18 (IL-18), and IL-1β. Additionally, aloe-emodin reduced the intensity of p-tau fluorescence. The Co-IP results demonstrated a direct interaction between NLRP3 and LC3. Interestingly, aloe-emodin exhibited effects comparable to those of RAPA, an mTOR inhibitor.
CONCLUSION: These findings demonstrate that aloe-emodin offers neuroprotective benefits by reducing NLRP3-mediated inflammation and promoting autophagy, thereby providing a novel perspective on the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-12
CmpDate: 2026-01-12
[Frequency of nutritional deficiency in patients with Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease].
Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova, 125(12):113-119.
OBJECTIVE: To determine the incidence of nutritional deficiencies in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) and, if identified, to correct them.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: 111 patients with neurodegenerative diseases AD and PD aged 50 to 89 years) were examined. Patients were examined twice: at the initial visit and 2 months later. During the first visit, a neurological examination and neuropsychological assessment were performed, and anxiety and depression levels were determined. Nutritional status was assessed using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) questionnaire, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. For laboratory confirmation of malnutrition, hemoglobin, albumin, lipid profile, urea, and creatinine levels were assessed. All patients at risk of malnutrition were given dietary recommendations. The patient's family discussed adherence to a dietary regimen and maintaining a nutritious diet. To treat malnutrition, patients were also recommended to receive enteral nutrition supplements at a rate of 30-35 kcal/kg of body weight for outpatients (a total of at least 400 kcal/day) and 1 g of protein/kg of body weight/day. For this purpose, Fresubin protein was used, individually adjusted from 2 to 6 measuring spoons (12-36 g of protein). In the presence of dysphagia, depending on the severity of the swallowing disorder, a diet with a modified consistency was prescribed: Fresubin Cream 2 kcal, Fresubin Yogurt, Fresubin Condensed Level 2, and Fresubin Condensed Level 1. At the second visit (2 months later), treatment effectiveness was assessed.
RESULTS: Among the examined patients, AD was diagnosed in 66 (59.5%) patients, and PD in 45. (40.5%). malnutrition/risk of malnutrition was detected in 31 (28%) patients. In the group of patients with AD who had malnutrition/risk of malnutrition, 15 (62.5%) patients had malnutrition, 9 (37.5%) had the risk of malnutrition. Among patients with PD, 3 (42.9%) patients were diagnosed with malnutrition, 4 (57.1%) had the risk of malnutrition. Patients with AD who had moderate and severe dementia had significantly more often malnutrition and risk of malnutrition (p<0.05). Patients with PD at a more severe stage of the disease and, accordingly, with more pronounced movement disorders, had significantly more often malnutrition and the risk of malnutrition (p<0.05). A moderate correlation was obtained between dysphagia, oral apraxia, tooth loss, chewing disorder and malnutrition and the risk of malnutrition in patients with AD and PD (r=0.3, p<0.001). The value of laboratory parameters, such as increased creatinine, decreased albumin and hemoglobin, statistically significantly correlated with malnutrition and the risk of malnutrition (p<0.05). The study found a statistically significant association between depression, affective disorders, and malnutrition and the risk of malnutrition in patients with AD and PD (p<0.05). When examining patients malnutrition and the risk of malnutrition at the second visit, BMI increased in all patients.
CONCLUSION: Malnutrition and the risk of malnutrition occur in more than a quarter of patients with AD and PD. The risk of malnutrition increases in moderate and severe stages of the disease. Malnutrition is more common in AD compared to PD. Malnutrition and the risk of malnutrition were significantly associated with the presence of depression, affective disorders, as well as with chewing disorders, tooth loss, dysphagia, and oral apraxia. Early recognition of the risks of malnutrition is important for the timely correction of modifiable factors for the development of malnutrition, including the organization of adequate nutrition for the patient, dental prosthetics, Adjustment of the treatment regimen for the underlying disease, treatment of depressive episodes, and affective disorders. If a diagnosis of malnutrition is made, it is necessary to calculate and replenish the patient's energy and fluid needs, including the inclusion of additional enteral nutrition in the comprehensive treatment strategy.
Additional Links: PMID-41524357
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41524357,
year = {2025},
author = {Guzanova, EV and Zorkova, AV and Sorokina, TA and Goncharov, VV and Voronina, DS and Beschastnova, IA},
title = {[Frequency of nutritional deficiency in patients with Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease].},
journal = {Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova},
volume = {125},
number = {12},
pages = {113-119},
doi = {10.17116/jnevro2025125121113},
pmid = {41524357},
issn = {1997-7298},
mesh = {Humans ; Aged ; *Parkinson Disease/complications ; *Alzheimer Disease/complications ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Malnutrition/epidemiology/etiology/diagnosis/diet therapy ; Nutritional Status ; Nutrition Assessment ; Incidence ; Body Mass Index ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine the incidence of nutritional deficiencies in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) and, if identified, to correct them.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: 111 patients with neurodegenerative diseases AD and PD aged 50 to 89 years) were examined. Patients were examined twice: at the initial visit and 2 months later. During the first visit, a neurological examination and neuropsychological assessment were performed, and anxiety and depression levels were determined. Nutritional status was assessed using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) questionnaire, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. For laboratory confirmation of malnutrition, hemoglobin, albumin, lipid profile, urea, and creatinine levels were assessed. All patients at risk of malnutrition were given dietary recommendations. The patient's family discussed adherence to a dietary regimen and maintaining a nutritious diet. To treat malnutrition, patients were also recommended to receive enteral nutrition supplements at a rate of 30-35 kcal/kg of body weight for outpatients (a total of at least 400 kcal/day) and 1 g of protein/kg of body weight/day. For this purpose, Fresubin protein was used, individually adjusted from 2 to 6 measuring spoons (12-36 g of protein). In the presence of dysphagia, depending on the severity of the swallowing disorder, a diet with a modified consistency was prescribed: Fresubin Cream 2 kcal, Fresubin Yogurt, Fresubin Condensed Level 2, and Fresubin Condensed Level 1. At the second visit (2 months later), treatment effectiveness was assessed.
RESULTS: Among the examined patients, AD was diagnosed in 66 (59.5%) patients, and PD in 45. (40.5%). malnutrition/risk of malnutrition was detected in 31 (28%) patients. In the group of patients with AD who had malnutrition/risk of malnutrition, 15 (62.5%) patients had malnutrition, 9 (37.5%) had the risk of malnutrition. Among patients with PD, 3 (42.9%) patients were diagnosed with malnutrition, 4 (57.1%) had the risk of malnutrition. Patients with AD who had moderate and severe dementia had significantly more often malnutrition and risk of malnutrition (p<0.05). Patients with PD at a more severe stage of the disease and, accordingly, with more pronounced movement disorders, had significantly more often malnutrition and the risk of malnutrition (p<0.05). A moderate correlation was obtained between dysphagia, oral apraxia, tooth loss, chewing disorder and malnutrition and the risk of malnutrition in patients with AD and PD (r=0.3, p<0.001). The value of laboratory parameters, such as increased creatinine, decreased albumin and hemoglobin, statistically significantly correlated with malnutrition and the risk of malnutrition (p<0.05). The study found a statistically significant association between depression, affective disorders, and malnutrition and the risk of malnutrition in patients with AD and PD (p<0.05). When examining patients malnutrition and the risk of malnutrition at the second visit, BMI increased in all patients.
CONCLUSION: Malnutrition and the risk of malnutrition occur in more than a quarter of patients with AD and PD. The risk of malnutrition increases in moderate and severe stages of the disease. Malnutrition is more common in AD compared to PD. Malnutrition and the risk of malnutrition were significantly associated with the presence of depression, affective disorders, as well as with chewing disorders, tooth loss, dysphagia, and oral apraxia. Early recognition of the risks of malnutrition is important for the timely correction of modifiable factors for the development of malnutrition, including the organization of adequate nutrition for the patient, dental prosthetics, Adjustment of the treatment regimen for the underlying disease, treatment of depressive episodes, and affective disorders. If a diagnosis of malnutrition is made, it is necessary to calculate and replenish the patient's energy and fluid needs, including the inclusion of additional enteral nutrition in the comprehensive treatment strategy.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Aged
*Parkinson Disease/complications
*Alzheimer Disease/complications
Male
Female
Middle Aged
Aged, 80 and over
*Malnutrition/epidemiology/etiology/diagnosis/diet therapy
Nutritional Status
Nutrition Assessment
Incidence
Body Mass Index
RevDate: 2026-01-12
CmpDate: 2026-01-12
[Neurogenesis in neurodegeneration: multifactorial regulation, mechanisms of impairment, and therapeutic strategies].
Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova, 125(12):14-21.
OBJECTIVE: To systematize current data on neurogenesis and its role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, with a focus on molecular mechanisms of regulation, the nature of disorders in neurodegeneration, and the evaluation of therapeutic approaches aimed at stimulating neurogenesis.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: Research papers published in scientific databases, mainly Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar, over the past 5 years were used for this review. Special attention was paid to studies on neurogenesis and its role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. The review included studies that met the following criteria: publications from the past five years reporting current neurogenesis data, using clearly identified experimental and clinical techniques, published in peer-reviewed international journals with a high impact factor, and providing reliable statistics to support the results.
UNLABELLED: Studies with a limited sample size and insufficient statistical significance, those lacking a transparent methodology or exhibiting a low level of data reproducibility, reviews without a clear focus on neurogenesis or its connection to neurodegenerative diseases, and studies providing insufficient information on the applied technologies and analysis methods were excluded.
RESULTS: Modern research has significantly expanded the understanding of neurogenesis and its role in neurodegenerative diseases. Neurogenesis has been confirmed to occur in specific areas of the adult brain, including the hippocampus, where it is involved in cognitive processes such as learning, memory consolidation, spatial adaptation, cognitive flexibility, and regulation of affective behavior. However, the extent and functional significance of neurogenesis in different brain regions remain a matter of debate. The effect of neurodegenerative diseases on neurogenesis varies: in Alzheimer's disease, studies in animal models demonstrate its impairment; however, data on humans are inconsistent: a decrease in neurogenesis is observed in the early stages of the disease, but in some cases, its increase is reported, likely as a compensatory mechanism. Factors influencing neurogenesis in Alzheimer's disease include β-amyloid and tau protein accumulation, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative stress. Parkinson's disease is associated with a decrease in neurogenesis in the subventricular zone and hippocampus due to the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and the accumulation of α-synuclein; however, deep brain stimulation is able to enhance neuronal proliferation. Therapeutic strategies include pharmacological approaches aimed at stimulating neurogenesis, such as the use of neurotrophic factors, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, Wnt and EGFR signaling pathway modulators, uric acid, and MFG-E8, as well as non-pharmacological methods, including physical activity, enriched environment, cognitive training, electrical stimulation, and music therapy.
CONCLUSION: Neurodegenerative diseases are a significant problem in modern healthcare, requiring an in-depth study of the mechanisms of neurogenesis and its role in pathogenesis. Despite conflicting evidence on neurogenesis in adult humans, animal model studies and cellular technologies demonstrate prospects for its therapeutic stimulation. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods, including the use of neurotrophic factors, electrical stimulation, and cognitive training, as well as cellular and gene therapy, are the basis of new intervention strategies. However, the issues of controlling the differentiation and integration of new neurons, as well as the ethical aspects associated with the use of stem cells, remain unresolved. Further interdisciplinary research aimed at studying the regulatory mechanisms of neurogenesis and its therapeutic potential may lead to the development of effective treatment strategies that can slow or even reverse the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. It highlights the need to integrate advanced technologies and approaches in modern neuroscience and clinical practice.
Additional Links: PMID-41524345
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41524345,
year = {2025},
author = {Yusupov, FA and Abdykadyrov, MS},
title = {[Neurogenesis in neurodegeneration: multifactorial regulation, mechanisms of impairment, and therapeutic strategies].},
journal = {Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova},
volume = {125},
number = {12},
pages = {14-21},
doi = {10.17116/jnevro202512512114},
pmid = {41524345},
issn = {1997-7298},
mesh = {Humans ; *Neurogenesis/physiology ; *Alzheimer Disease/physiopathology/metabolism/therapy ; *Neurodegenerative Diseases/physiopathology/therapy ; *Parkinson Disease/physiopathology/therapy/metabolism ; Animals ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To systematize current data on neurogenesis and its role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, with a focus on molecular mechanisms of regulation, the nature of disorders in neurodegeneration, and the evaluation of therapeutic approaches aimed at stimulating neurogenesis.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: Research papers published in scientific databases, mainly Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar, over the past 5 years were used for this review. Special attention was paid to studies on neurogenesis and its role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. The review included studies that met the following criteria: publications from the past five years reporting current neurogenesis data, using clearly identified experimental and clinical techniques, published in peer-reviewed international journals with a high impact factor, and providing reliable statistics to support the results.
UNLABELLED: Studies with a limited sample size and insufficient statistical significance, those lacking a transparent methodology or exhibiting a low level of data reproducibility, reviews without a clear focus on neurogenesis or its connection to neurodegenerative diseases, and studies providing insufficient information on the applied technologies and analysis methods were excluded.
RESULTS: Modern research has significantly expanded the understanding of neurogenesis and its role in neurodegenerative diseases. Neurogenesis has been confirmed to occur in specific areas of the adult brain, including the hippocampus, where it is involved in cognitive processes such as learning, memory consolidation, spatial adaptation, cognitive flexibility, and regulation of affective behavior. However, the extent and functional significance of neurogenesis in different brain regions remain a matter of debate. The effect of neurodegenerative diseases on neurogenesis varies: in Alzheimer's disease, studies in animal models demonstrate its impairment; however, data on humans are inconsistent: a decrease in neurogenesis is observed in the early stages of the disease, but in some cases, its increase is reported, likely as a compensatory mechanism. Factors influencing neurogenesis in Alzheimer's disease include β-amyloid and tau protein accumulation, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative stress. Parkinson's disease is associated with a decrease in neurogenesis in the subventricular zone and hippocampus due to the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and the accumulation of α-synuclein; however, deep brain stimulation is able to enhance neuronal proliferation. Therapeutic strategies include pharmacological approaches aimed at stimulating neurogenesis, such as the use of neurotrophic factors, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, Wnt and EGFR signaling pathway modulators, uric acid, and MFG-E8, as well as non-pharmacological methods, including physical activity, enriched environment, cognitive training, electrical stimulation, and music therapy.
CONCLUSION: Neurodegenerative diseases are a significant problem in modern healthcare, requiring an in-depth study of the mechanisms of neurogenesis and its role in pathogenesis. Despite conflicting evidence on neurogenesis in adult humans, animal model studies and cellular technologies demonstrate prospects for its therapeutic stimulation. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods, including the use of neurotrophic factors, electrical stimulation, and cognitive training, as well as cellular and gene therapy, are the basis of new intervention strategies. However, the issues of controlling the differentiation and integration of new neurons, as well as the ethical aspects associated with the use of stem cells, remain unresolved. Further interdisciplinary research aimed at studying the regulatory mechanisms of neurogenesis and its therapeutic potential may lead to the development of effective treatment strategies that can slow or even reverse the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. It highlights the need to integrate advanced technologies and approaches in modern neuroscience and clinical practice.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Humans
*Neurogenesis/physiology
*Alzheimer Disease/physiopathology/metabolism/therapy
*Neurodegenerative Diseases/physiopathology/therapy
*Parkinson Disease/physiopathology/therapy/metabolism
Animals
RevDate: 2026-01-14
CmpDate: 2026-01-12
Neuropsychiatric symptoms in mild cognitive impairment and early Alzheimer's disease: Clinical pattern and diagnostic implications.
AIMS neuroscience, 12(4):676-705.
BACKGROUND: Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are widely recognized for their hallmark cognitive deficits, typically characterized by progressive cognitive deterioration. However, neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS), including depression, apathy, anxiety, irritability, and sleep disturbances, are increasingly prevalent in the early stages of these conditions and significantly influence the disease trajectory and patient outcomes. Importantly, neuropsychiatric symptoms often precede overt memory loss by several years, with subtle mood and behavioral disturbances serving as early pre-diagnostic markers of an underlying Alzheimer's pathology. Their presence complicates the diagnosis, accelerates the disease progression, and intensifies the caregiver burden. However, distinguishing NPS arising from neurodegeneration and primary psychiatric disorders remains a profound diagnostic challenge, thus delaying timely intervention and obscuring early disease recognition.
OBJECTIVE: This structured narrative review examines the diagnostic complexities, clinical impact, and current management of NPS in early-stage Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), alongside the biological underpinnings, clinical relevance, diagnostic challenges, and treatment perspectives. We argue that understanding and managing NPS is essential to improve the clinical outcomes, reduce the caregiver burden, and guide therapeutic innovation.
METHODS: A structured narrative review of peer-reviewed studies published between 2012 and 2025 was conducted using PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, and CINAHL. The included studies investigated NPS prevalence, neurobiological correlations, and management strategies in individuals with AD or MCI.
FINDINGS: NPS affects up to 80% of individuals with early AD or MCI, often preceding cognitive decline. The current management strategies heavily rely on non-pharmacological interventions such as caregiver support, behavioral activation, and structured routines, while pharmacological options remain limited by modest efficacy and safety concerns.
DISCUSSION: Advancing knowledge of NPS and their association with cognitive decline is critical to establish more precise diagnostic criteria and to inform personalized therapeutic approaches. Future research should emphasize biomarker-driven diagnostics and the development of novel, targeted interventions that simultaneously address cognitive and neuropsychiatric domains to optimize outcomes for patients and caregivers. This study contributes to the field by reframing NPS as potential early biomarkers in the trajectory of MCI and dementia progression.
Additional Links: PMID-41523330
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41523330,
year = {2025},
author = {Raphael, DL},
title = {Neuropsychiatric symptoms in mild cognitive impairment and early Alzheimer's disease: Clinical pattern and diagnostic implications.},
journal = {AIMS neuroscience},
volume = {12},
number = {4},
pages = {676-705},
pmid = {41523330},
issn = {2373-7972},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are widely recognized for their hallmark cognitive deficits, typically characterized by progressive cognitive deterioration. However, neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS), including depression, apathy, anxiety, irritability, and sleep disturbances, are increasingly prevalent in the early stages of these conditions and significantly influence the disease trajectory and patient outcomes. Importantly, neuropsychiatric symptoms often precede overt memory loss by several years, with subtle mood and behavioral disturbances serving as early pre-diagnostic markers of an underlying Alzheimer's pathology. Their presence complicates the diagnosis, accelerates the disease progression, and intensifies the caregiver burden. However, distinguishing NPS arising from neurodegeneration and primary psychiatric disorders remains a profound diagnostic challenge, thus delaying timely intervention and obscuring early disease recognition.
OBJECTIVE: This structured narrative review examines the diagnostic complexities, clinical impact, and current management of NPS in early-stage Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), alongside the biological underpinnings, clinical relevance, diagnostic challenges, and treatment perspectives. We argue that understanding and managing NPS is essential to improve the clinical outcomes, reduce the caregiver burden, and guide therapeutic innovation.
METHODS: A structured narrative review of peer-reviewed studies published between 2012 and 2025 was conducted using PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, and CINAHL. The included studies investigated NPS prevalence, neurobiological correlations, and management strategies in individuals with AD or MCI.
FINDINGS: NPS affects up to 80% of individuals with early AD or MCI, often preceding cognitive decline. The current management strategies heavily rely on non-pharmacological interventions such as caregiver support, behavioral activation, and structured routines, while pharmacological options remain limited by modest efficacy and safety concerns.
DISCUSSION: Advancing knowledge of NPS and their association with cognitive decline is critical to establish more precise diagnostic criteria and to inform personalized therapeutic approaches. Future research should emphasize biomarker-driven diagnostics and the development of novel, targeted interventions that simultaneously address cognitive and neuropsychiatric domains to optimize outcomes for patients and caregivers. This study contributes to the field by reframing NPS as potential early biomarkers in the trajectory of MCI and dementia progression.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-14
The proportion of Alzheimer's disease attributable to apolipoprotein E.
NPJ dementia, 2(1):1.
Variation in the APOE gene strongly affects Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk. However, the proportion of AD burden attributable to this variation requires clarification, which would help to elucidate the scope of strategies targeting apolipoprotein E (APOE) for AD prevention and treatment. We estimated the extents to which clinically diagnosed AD, AD neuropathology and all-cause dementia are attributable to the common APOE alleles in four large studies. First, we used data on 171,105 and 289,150 participants aged ≥60 years from UK Biobank (UKB) and FinnGen, respectively. AD and all-cause dementia were ascertained from linked electronic health records in these cohorts. Second, we examined amyloid-β positivity from amyloid positron emission tomography scans of 4415 participants of the A4 Study. Third, we analysed data from the Alzheimer's Disease Genetics Consortium (ADGC), where neuropathologically confirmed AD cases were compared to pathology-negative, cognitively intact controls (N = 5007). In each analysis, we estimated outcome risk among carriers of APOE risk alleles ε3 and ε4, relative to individuals with an ε2/ε2 genotype, and calculated attributable fractions to show the proportions of the outcomes due to ε3 and ε4. For AD, fractions ranged from 71.5% (95% confidence interval: 54.9%, 81.7%) in FinnGen to 92.7% in the ADGC (82.4, 96.5%). In A4, 85.4% (17.5, 94.5%) of cerebral amyloidosis was attributable to ε3 and ε4. The proportions of all-cause dementia attributable to ε3 and ε4 in UKB and Fin-Gen were 44.4% (95% CI: 18.2%, 62.2%) and 45.6% (30.6%, 56.9%), respectively. Without strong underlying risks from APOE ε3 and ε4, almost all AD and half of all dementia would not occur. Intervening on APOE should be prioritised to facilitate dementia prevention.
Additional Links: PMID-41522467
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41522467,
year = {2026},
author = {Williams, DM and Heikkinen, S and Hiltunen, M and , and Davies, NM and Anderson, EL},
title = {The proportion of Alzheimer's disease attributable to apolipoprotein E.},
journal = {NPJ dementia},
volume = {2},
number = {1},
pages = {1},
pmid = {41522467},
issn = {3005-1940},
abstract = {Variation in the APOE gene strongly affects Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk. However, the proportion of AD burden attributable to this variation requires clarification, which would help to elucidate the scope of strategies targeting apolipoprotein E (APOE) for AD prevention and treatment. We estimated the extents to which clinically diagnosed AD, AD neuropathology and all-cause dementia are attributable to the common APOE alleles in four large studies. First, we used data on 171,105 and 289,150 participants aged ≥60 years from UK Biobank (UKB) and FinnGen, respectively. AD and all-cause dementia were ascertained from linked electronic health records in these cohorts. Second, we examined amyloid-β positivity from amyloid positron emission tomography scans of 4415 participants of the A4 Study. Third, we analysed data from the Alzheimer's Disease Genetics Consortium (ADGC), where neuropathologically confirmed AD cases were compared to pathology-negative, cognitively intact controls (N = 5007). In each analysis, we estimated outcome risk among carriers of APOE risk alleles ε3 and ε4, relative to individuals with an ε2/ε2 genotype, and calculated attributable fractions to show the proportions of the outcomes due to ε3 and ε4. For AD, fractions ranged from 71.5% (95% confidence interval: 54.9%, 81.7%) in FinnGen to 92.7% in the ADGC (82.4, 96.5%). In A4, 85.4% (17.5, 94.5%) of cerebral amyloidosis was attributable to ε3 and ε4. The proportions of all-cause dementia attributable to ε3 and ε4 in UKB and Fin-Gen were 44.4% (95% CI: 18.2%, 62.2%) and 45.6% (30.6%, 56.9%), respectively. Without strong underlying risks from APOE ε3 and ε4, almost all AD and half of all dementia would not occur. Intervening on APOE should be prioritised to facilitate dementia prevention.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-14
CmpDate: 2026-01-12
Acute anti-Aβ antibody exposure induces microglial changes and significantly alters chemokine signaling.
Alzheimer's & dementia (New York, N. Y.), 12(1):e70201.
INTRODUCTION: While the anti-amyloid-lowering immunotherapies provide the first disease-targeting therapies for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, there remain harmful adverse events causing hesitation among patients, families, physicians, and regulatory bodies. Though these drugs have been repeatedly proven to lower brain amyloid plaque burden, the specific cellular mechanisms and pathways by which the immunotherapy impacts the brain remain unclear.
METHODS: This study aimed to transcriptionally profile the brain's immediate immune response to anti-amyloid beta (anti-Aβ) antibodies. To evaluate acute cellular priorities, we intracranially injected anti-Aβ antibody (3D6) or an isotype-matched control immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody and performed single-cell sequencing analysis after 3 days.
RESULTS: We found reduced numbers of a motile microglia cluster and homeostatic microglia in the 3D6 antibody-injected cortex compared to the IgG-injected cortex. It was also found that chemokine/cytokine signaling was enriched across homeostatic-proinflammatory microglia, interferon-responding microglia, and disease-associated microglia 2 (DAM2) following 3D6 antibody injection. We explored "CCL" signaling, which suggested a change in outgoing signaling coordinated by all microglia types targeting homeostatic microglia, surprisingly not targeting DAM1 or DAM2. We then analyzed enriched signaling pathways clustered by k-means river plots and identified pathways enriched and dampened with acute 3D6 treatment.
DISCUSSION: Together these data supply evidence for significant involvement of microglia in the anti-Aβ response in the brain after just 3 days. Most interestingly, there are changes in cytokine/chemokine signaling across microglia subtypes, specifically with communication in CCL pathways targeting homeostatic microglia and T cells. These acute signaling changes provide novel insights and generate unique hypotheses on the brain's immediate immune reaction to anti-Aβ antibody.
HIGHLIGHTS: Intracranially injected anti-amyloid beta (anti-Aβ) antibody promotes an immediate microglial response.3D6 exposure resulted in fewer homeostatic and motile microglia subtypes.Acute 3D6 enriches for chemokine/cytokine signaling pathways.
Additional Links: PMID-41522370
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41522370,
year = {2026},
author = {Foley, KE and Weekman, EM and Wilcock, DM},
title = {Acute anti-Aβ antibody exposure induces microglial changes and significantly alters chemokine signaling.},
journal = {Alzheimer's & dementia (New York, N. Y.)},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {e70201},
pmid = {41522370},
issn = {2352-8737},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: While the anti-amyloid-lowering immunotherapies provide the first disease-targeting therapies for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, there remain harmful adverse events causing hesitation among patients, families, physicians, and regulatory bodies. Though these drugs have been repeatedly proven to lower brain amyloid plaque burden, the specific cellular mechanisms and pathways by which the immunotherapy impacts the brain remain unclear.
METHODS: This study aimed to transcriptionally profile the brain's immediate immune response to anti-amyloid beta (anti-Aβ) antibodies. To evaluate acute cellular priorities, we intracranially injected anti-Aβ antibody (3D6) or an isotype-matched control immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody and performed single-cell sequencing analysis after 3 days.
RESULTS: We found reduced numbers of a motile microglia cluster and homeostatic microglia in the 3D6 antibody-injected cortex compared to the IgG-injected cortex. It was also found that chemokine/cytokine signaling was enriched across homeostatic-proinflammatory microglia, interferon-responding microglia, and disease-associated microglia 2 (DAM2) following 3D6 antibody injection. We explored "CCL" signaling, which suggested a change in outgoing signaling coordinated by all microglia types targeting homeostatic microglia, surprisingly not targeting DAM1 or DAM2. We then analyzed enriched signaling pathways clustered by k-means river plots and identified pathways enriched and dampened with acute 3D6 treatment.
DISCUSSION: Together these data supply evidence for significant involvement of microglia in the anti-Aβ response in the brain after just 3 days. Most interestingly, there are changes in cytokine/chemokine signaling across microglia subtypes, specifically with communication in CCL pathways targeting homeostatic microglia and T cells. These acute signaling changes provide novel insights and generate unique hypotheses on the brain's immediate immune reaction to anti-Aβ antibody.
HIGHLIGHTS: Intracranially injected anti-amyloid beta (anti-Aβ) antibody promotes an immediate microglial response.3D6 exposure resulted in fewer homeostatic and motile microglia subtypes.Acute 3D6 enriches for chemokine/cytokine signaling pathways.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-14
CmpDate: 2026-01-12
Baseline characteristics from evoke and evoke+: Two phase 3 randomized placebo-controlled trials of semaglutide in participants with early-stage symptomatic Alzheimer's disease.
Alzheimer's & dementia (New York, N. Y.), 12(1):e70200.
INTRODUCTION: The glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist semaglutide may impact neuroinflammation and reduce neurodegeneration. We present baseline characteristics of participants enrolled in the evoke (NCT04777396) and evoke+ (NCT04777409) trials, referred to as "evoke (+)" hereafter.
METHODS: Evoke (+) are two ongoing global, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled phase 3 trials investigating semaglutide in participants with early-stage symptomatic Alzheimer's disease (AD) with confirmed amyloid positivity (by positron emission tomography or cerebrospinal fluid testing). Inclusion criteria are the same for both trials, except that by design, evoke+ also includes participants with significant small vessel pathology. Both trials include a 12-week screening phase before randomization (1:1) to receive oral semaglutide titrated to 14 mg or placebo for 156 weeks. Baseline data were summarized and analyzed descriptively. Additionally, data were pooled and assessed by five main geographical regions.
RESULTS: Evoke (+) recruited 9996 participants from 566 sites in 40 countries. The mean (standard deviation) age of participants was 71.8 (7.1) and 72.6 (7.1) years in evoke and evoke+, respectively; more participants were female than male (female: 53.0% and 51.9%, respectively) and most had a Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) global score of 0.5 (72.8% and 71.4%; CDR global score of 1: 26.5% and 27.6%). Both trial populations had similar demographics, and clinical and cognitive baseline characteristics, except that 2.8% of participants in evoke+ had magnetic resonance imaging-documented significant small vessel pathology as per protocol inclusion criteria. Regional-level data demonstrated some differences in AD treatment characteristics, including cholinesterase inhibitor use of 41.7% in North America versus 61.6% in Asia.
DISCUSSION: Evoke (+) are the only large-scale, phase 3 trials investigating the longer-term efficacy and safety of semaglutide in early AD as a potential disease-modifying treatment. The baseline characteristics from evoke (+) reflect a varied, global population with early-stage symptomatic AD. Primary readouts are expected in the second half of 2025.
HIGHLIGHTS: evoke and evoke+ are the only large-scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the longer-term efficacy and safety of semaglutide in early AD.Baseline characteristics reflect a varied, global population.The trials' primary readouts are expected in the second half of 2025.
Additional Links: PMID-41522368
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41522368,
year = {2026},
author = {Scheltens, P and Atri, A and Feldman, HH and Zetterberg, H and Sano, M and Johannsen, P and Colombo, TL and Bardtrum, L and Jeppesen, R and Hansen, CT and Cummings, JL},
title = {Baseline characteristics from evoke and evoke+: Two phase 3 randomized placebo-controlled trials of semaglutide in participants with early-stage symptomatic Alzheimer's disease.},
journal = {Alzheimer's & dementia (New York, N. Y.)},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {e70200},
pmid = {41522368},
issn = {2352-8737},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist semaglutide may impact neuroinflammation and reduce neurodegeneration. We present baseline characteristics of participants enrolled in the evoke (NCT04777396) and evoke+ (NCT04777409) trials, referred to as "evoke (+)" hereafter.
METHODS: Evoke (+) are two ongoing global, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled phase 3 trials investigating semaglutide in participants with early-stage symptomatic Alzheimer's disease (AD) with confirmed amyloid positivity (by positron emission tomography or cerebrospinal fluid testing). Inclusion criteria are the same for both trials, except that by design, evoke+ also includes participants with significant small vessel pathology. Both trials include a 12-week screening phase before randomization (1:1) to receive oral semaglutide titrated to 14 mg or placebo for 156 weeks. Baseline data were summarized and analyzed descriptively. Additionally, data were pooled and assessed by five main geographical regions.
RESULTS: Evoke (+) recruited 9996 participants from 566 sites in 40 countries. The mean (standard deviation) age of participants was 71.8 (7.1) and 72.6 (7.1) years in evoke and evoke+, respectively; more participants were female than male (female: 53.0% and 51.9%, respectively) and most had a Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) global score of 0.5 (72.8% and 71.4%; CDR global score of 1: 26.5% and 27.6%). Both trial populations had similar demographics, and clinical and cognitive baseline characteristics, except that 2.8% of participants in evoke+ had magnetic resonance imaging-documented significant small vessel pathology as per protocol inclusion criteria. Regional-level data demonstrated some differences in AD treatment characteristics, including cholinesterase inhibitor use of 41.7% in North America versus 61.6% in Asia.
DISCUSSION: Evoke (+) are the only large-scale, phase 3 trials investigating the longer-term efficacy and safety of semaglutide in early AD as a potential disease-modifying treatment. The baseline characteristics from evoke (+) reflect a varied, global population with early-stage symptomatic AD. Primary readouts are expected in the second half of 2025.
HIGHLIGHTS: evoke and evoke+ are the only large-scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the longer-term efficacy and safety of semaglutide in early AD.Baseline characteristics reflect a varied, global population.The trials' primary readouts are expected in the second half of 2025.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-12
Innovations in Nanobot and Microbot Propulsion for Targeted CNS Drug Delivery Across the Blood-Brain Barrier.
Critical reviews in analytical chemistry [Epub ahead of print].
The transport of therapeutic molecules to the brain is one of the largest challenges of contemporary medicine because of the restrictive nature of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which blocks the penetration of almost all biological therapeutics and most small-molecule drugs. This is a major limitation to the treatment of such neurological diseases as Parkinson's disease (PD), glioblastoma, and Alzheimer's disease. To beat these obstacles, there must be advanced delivery systems that can be precise, be released under control, and move without being invasive. Over the past decade, there have been innovations in micro and nanorobotic technologies, which provide a groundbreaking model that incorporates innovations in materials science, analytical chemistry, and biomedical engineering. Such engineered nanorobots are magnetically controlled, polymeric, or biologically derived nanorobots, which can be magnetically, acoustically, optically, or chemically controlled, and can cross the BBB with greater specificity. It has also been possible to follow the behavior of nanorobots at a direct visualization level in biological systems due to the development of analytical tools, especially imaging, real-time monitoring, and in situ sensing, which allows the behavior of nanorobots to be evaluated rigorously in terms of motions, shape transformation, and drug release profiles. The present review gives a detailed description of the propulsion-based nanorobotic drug delivery systems to the central nervous system (CNS), including structural components, modes of actuation, and protocols of analysis. The review explains that the combined effects of physicochemical features, external stimuli, and interactions between biointerfaces influence permeability via the BBB and accuracy of therapeutic response.
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@article {pmid41521630,
year = {2026},
author = {K, A and B, SK and Reddy, SG and Kugabalasooriar, S},
title = {Innovations in Nanobot and Microbot Propulsion for Targeted CNS Drug Delivery Across the Blood-Brain Barrier.},
journal = {Critical reviews in analytical chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-30},
doi = {10.1080/10408347.2025.2612631},
pmid = {41521630},
issn = {1547-6510},
abstract = {The transport of therapeutic molecules to the brain is one of the largest challenges of contemporary medicine because of the restrictive nature of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which blocks the penetration of almost all biological therapeutics and most small-molecule drugs. This is a major limitation to the treatment of such neurological diseases as Parkinson's disease (PD), glioblastoma, and Alzheimer's disease. To beat these obstacles, there must be advanced delivery systems that can be precise, be released under control, and move without being invasive. Over the past decade, there have been innovations in micro and nanorobotic technologies, which provide a groundbreaking model that incorporates innovations in materials science, analytical chemistry, and biomedical engineering. Such engineered nanorobots are magnetically controlled, polymeric, or biologically derived nanorobots, which can be magnetically, acoustically, optically, or chemically controlled, and can cross the BBB with greater specificity. It has also been possible to follow the behavior of nanorobots at a direct visualization level in biological systems due to the development of analytical tools, especially imaging, real-time monitoring, and in situ sensing, which allows the behavior of nanorobots to be evaluated rigorously in terms of motions, shape transformation, and drug release profiles. The present review gives a detailed description of the propulsion-based nanorobotic drug delivery systems to the central nervous system (CNS), including structural components, modes of actuation, and protocols of analysis. The review explains that the combined effects of physicochemical features, external stimuli, and interactions between biointerfaces influence permeability via the BBB and accuracy of therapeutic response.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-11
Peripheral biomarkers associated with apathy and predicting response to methylphenidate: Secondary analysis of the Apathy in Dementia Methylphenidate Trial 2 (ADMET2) study.
International psychogeriatrics pii:S1041-6102(25)00419-3 [Epub ahead of print].
BACKGROUND: In Apathy in Dementia Methylphenidate Trial 2 (ADMET2), apathy in Alzheimer's disease improved with methylphenidate (MPH) in a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, though response varied. Here we evaluated serum biomarkers for their association with apathy and with treatment response.
METHODS: All ADMET2 participants with available blood samples were included. Markers of inflammation [interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)], oxidative stress [lipid hydroperoxide (LPH), 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), 8-isoprostane (8-ISO)] and neuronal injury [neurofilament light (NfL), S100B] were assessed and values log-transformed. Neuropsychiatric Inventory-apathy (NPI-A) measured apathy. Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression was performed for feature selection of baseline markers predicting NPI-A at Month-6 (M6). Univariate analyses examined individual biomarker effects and multivariable models evaluated their combined effects. Treatment interactions, baseline and change in biomarker levels in treatment responders (≥4 change in NPI-A) and remitters (M6 NPI-A=0) were explored.
RESULTS: In the ADMET2 biomarker subset (n = 44, MPH:21, age:75 years, MMSE:20.2), higher baseline TNF was associated with higher M6 NPI-A [B(SE)= 6.86 (1.71), p = .0003], and multivariable models found lower baseline TNF [B(SE)= 8.28(1.61), p < .001] and higher baseline S100B [B(SE)= -6.41(1.95), p = .002] were associated with lower M6 NPI-A. Exploratory analyses suggested that higher baseline NfL significantly interacted with treatment to predict lower M6 NPI-A [B(SE)= -8.36(4.21), p = .05], only when adjusting for cognition. MPH remitters had lower baseline TNF [B(SE)= -0.27(0.10), p = .02], higher baseline NfL [B(SE)= 0.33(0.14), p = .03], and a greater decrease in IL-6 [B(SE)= -0.44 (0.17), p = .02].
CONCLUSIONS: Inflammatory and neuronal injury biomarkers may have prognostic value and may potentially inform treatment response and remission outcomes in apathy. Apathy in Dementia Methylphenidate Trial 2 (ADMET2), NCT02346201, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02346201.
Additional Links: PMID-41521126
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@article {pmid41521126,
year = {2026},
author = {Sankhe, K and Ruthirakuhan, M and Andreazza, AC and Brawman-Mintzer, O and Craft, S and Herrmann, N and Ismail, Z and Lerner, AJ and Levey, AI and Mintzer, J and Padala, PR and Perin, J and Porsteinsson, AP and Rosenberg, PB and Shade, D and Tumati, S and van Dyck, CH and Lanctôt, KL},
title = {Peripheral biomarkers associated with apathy and predicting response to methylphenidate: Secondary analysis of the Apathy in Dementia Methylphenidate Trial 2 (ADMET2) study.},
journal = {International psychogeriatrics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {100181},
doi = {10.1016/j.inpsyc.2025.100181},
pmid = {41521126},
issn = {1741-203X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: In Apathy in Dementia Methylphenidate Trial 2 (ADMET2), apathy in Alzheimer's disease improved with methylphenidate (MPH) in a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, though response varied. Here we evaluated serum biomarkers for their association with apathy and with treatment response.
METHODS: All ADMET2 participants with available blood samples were included. Markers of inflammation [interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)], oxidative stress [lipid hydroperoxide (LPH), 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), 8-isoprostane (8-ISO)] and neuronal injury [neurofilament light (NfL), S100B] were assessed and values log-transformed. Neuropsychiatric Inventory-apathy (NPI-A) measured apathy. Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression was performed for feature selection of baseline markers predicting NPI-A at Month-6 (M6). Univariate analyses examined individual biomarker effects and multivariable models evaluated their combined effects. Treatment interactions, baseline and change in biomarker levels in treatment responders (≥4 change in NPI-A) and remitters (M6 NPI-A=0) were explored.
RESULTS: In the ADMET2 biomarker subset (n = 44, MPH:21, age:75 years, MMSE:20.2), higher baseline TNF was associated with higher M6 NPI-A [B(SE)= 6.86 (1.71), p = .0003], and multivariable models found lower baseline TNF [B(SE)= 8.28(1.61), p < .001] and higher baseline S100B [B(SE)= -6.41(1.95), p = .002] were associated with lower M6 NPI-A. Exploratory analyses suggested that higher baseline NfL significantly interacted with treatment to predict lower M6 NPI-A [B(SE)= -8.36(4.21), p = .05], only when adjusting for cognition. MPH remitters had lower baseline TNF [B(SE)= -0.27(0.10), p = .02], higher baseline NfL [B(SE)= 0.33(0.14), p = .03], and a greater decrease in IL-6 [B(SE)= -0.44 (0.17), p = .02].
CONCLUSIONS: Inflammatory and neuronal injury biomarkers may have prognostic value and may potentially inform treatment response and remission outcomes in apathy. Apathy in Dementia Methylphenidate Trial 2 (ADMET2), NCT02346201, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02346201.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-11
A multi-target therapeutic framework for Alzheimer's disease: an integrative mechanistic review.
Neuroscience pii:S0306-4522(26)00016-3 [Epub ahead of print].
BACKGROUND: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is increasingly recognized as a multifactorial network disorder in which amyloid and tau pathology interact with mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, metabolic impairment, vascular dysregulation, and synaptic failure. This review provides an integrative, systems-level synthesis of these mechanisms with emphasis on diagnostic and therapeutic implications.
METHODS: A structured narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase (2010-2025). Eligible studies included clinical trials, biomarker validation studies, cohort analyses, and mechanistic investigations. Evidence was synthesized by mechanistic domain with focus on cross-system interactions and translational relevance.
FINDINGS: Convergent data indicate that soluble Aβ species, tau propagation, glial dysregulation, insulin resistance, mitochondrial bioenergetic failure, lipid imbalance, and BBB dysfunction form a self-reinforcing neurodegenerative network. Diagnostic advances-including plasma p-tau181/217, Aβ42/40 ratio, GFAP, sTREM2, neuronal exosomes, and multimodal machine-learning models-enable earlier staging and refinement of therapeutic selection. Therapeutic development is shifting from linear amyloid removal to multi-target strategies incorporating anti-tau agents, glial-modulating compounds, metabolic and microbiome interventions, medical nutrition, and multidomain lifestyle programs. Across trials, combined strategies targeting interacting mechanisms demonstrate stronger biomarker and cognitive effects than single-axis approaches.
CONCLUSIONS: AD management requires a systems-oriented therapeutic architecture in which interventions are selected based on mechanistic dominance, biomarker stage, and potential synergy. We outline a multi-target strategy integrating amyloid/tau modulation, neuroimmune regulation, metabolic-vascular stabilization, and synaptic support. Future work should prioritize biomarker-guided stratification, treatment sequencing, and prevention-oriented combination designs.
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@article {pmid41520868,
year = {2026},
author = {Bajinka, O and Jallow, L and Ozdemir, G},
title = {A multi-target therapeutic framework for Alzheimer's disease: an integrative mechanistic review.},
journal = {Neuroscience},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.neuroscience.2026.01.010},
pmid = {41520868},
issn = {1873-7544},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is increasingly recognized as a multifactorial network disorder in which amyloid and tau pathology interact with mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, metabolic impairment, vascular dysregulation, and synaptic failure. This review provides an integrative, systems-level synthesis of these mechanisms with emphasis on diagnostic and therapeutic implications.
METHODS: A structured narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase (2010-2025). Eligible studies included clinical trials, biomarker validation studies, cohort analyses, and mechanistic investigations. Evidence was synthesized by mechanistic domain with focus on cross-system interactions and translational relevance.
FINDINGS: Convergent data indicate that soluble Aβ species, tau propagation, glial dysregulation, insulin resistance, mitochondrial bioenergetic failure, lipid imbalance, and BBB dysfunction form a self-reinforcing neurodegenerative network. Diagnostic advances-including plasma p-tau181/217, Aβ42/40 ratio, GFAP, sTREM2, neuronal exosomes, and multimodal machine-learning models-enable earlier staging and refinement of therapeutic selection. Therapeutic development is shifting from linear amyloid removal to multi-target strategies incorporating anti-tau agents, glial-modulating compounds, metabolic and microbiome interventions, medical nutrition, and multidomain lifestyle programs. Across trials, combined strategies targeting interacting mechanisms demonstrate stronger biomarker and cognitive effects than single-axis approaches.
CONCLUSIONS: AD management requires a systems-oriented therapeutic architecture in which interventions are selected based on mechanistic dominance, biomarker stage, and potential synergy. We outline a multi-target strategy integrating amyloid/tau modulation, neuroimmune regulation, metabolic-vascular stabilization, and synaptic support. Future work should prioritize biomarker-guided stratification, treatment sequencing, and prevention-oriented combination designs.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-11
Carrier-free nanoassembly with dual antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities camouflaged by melanoma cell membrane for tau-targeted therapy of Alzheimer's disease.
Biomaterials, 329:123970 pii:S0142-9612(25)00890-7 [Epub ahead of print].
Targeting phosphorylated tau (p-tau) across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) represents a critical prerequisite for attenuating tau pathology and disease progression in Alzheimer's disease (AD) by alleviating oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. To address this challenge, we developed a novel carrier-free selenium-based nanoassembly stabilized by hydroxyl-rich fingolimod (FTY720), a sphingosine analogue. Following camouflaging with melanoma cell membranes and further functionalizing with T807, the resulting nanocomposite (FSMT) demonstrated robust capacity for BBB crossing and target p-tau both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, FTY720 and nano-selenium exert remarkable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects by modulating the GSK-3β and NF-κB signaling pathways, respectively, thereby attenuating tau hyperphosphorylation and preventing neuronal cell death. In an okadaic acid-induced AD mouse model, the FSMT treatment not only significantly ameliorated oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, but also improved spatial learning and memory impairments. The reduction in abnormal tau aggregation following treatment was confirmed by PET-CT imaging. Overall, this p-tau-targeted biomimetic nanocomposite demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and therapeutic efficacy, presenting a translatable strategy for treating AD and other neurological disorders through analogous mechanisms.
Additional Links: PMID-41520543
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@article {pmid41520543,
year = {2025},
author = {Xue, R and Wang, F and Zhang, B and Wu, J and Zhang, N and Sun, C},
title = {Carrier-free nanoassembly with dual antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities camouflaged by melanoma cell membrane for tau-targeted therapy of Alzheimer's disease.},
journal = {Biomaterials},
volume = {329},
number = {},
pages = {123970},
doi = {10.1016/j.biomaterials.2025.123970},
pmid = {41520543},
issn = {1878-5905},
abstract = {Targeting phosphorylated tau (p-tau) across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) represents a critical prerequisite for attenuating tau pathology and disease progression in Alzheimer's disease (AD) by alleviating oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. To address this challenge, we developed a novel carrier-free selenium-based nanoassembly stabilized by hydroxyl-rich fingolimod (FTY720), a sphingosine analogue. Following camouflaging with melanoma cell membranes and further functionalizing with T807, the resulting nanocomposite (FSMT) demonstrated robust capacity for BBB crossing and target p-tau both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, FTY720 and nano-selenium exert remarkable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects by modulating the GSK-3β and NF-κB signaling pathways, respectively, thereby attenuating tau hyperphosphorylation and preventing neuronal cell death. In an okadaic acid-induced AD mouse model, the FSMT treatment not only significantly ameliorated oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, but also improved spatial learning and memory impairments. The reduction in abnormal tau aggregation following treatment was confirmed by PET-CT imaging. Overall, this p-tau-targeted biomimetic nanocomposite demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and therapeutic efficacy, presenting a translatable strategy for treating AD and other neurological disorders through analogous mechanisms.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-10
Real world clinical practice of lecanemab at PUMCH dementia cohort: focus on dynamic imaging and biomarker evolution.
Alzheimer's research & therapy pii:10.1186/s13195-025-01943-z [Epub ahead of print].
BACKGROUND: Lecanemab is an anti-Aβ antibody approved in China for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and mild dementia. Real-world application requires comprehensive assessment beyond MMSE scores, considering factors like ARIA risk. This single-center, real-world study aims to evaluate its efficacy in an expanded population, observe biomarker changes, and assess its safety profile in clinical practice.
METHODS: We recruited adults aged 40-90 with early AD from the PUMCH Dementia Cohort. A total of 42 patients received lecanemab treatment, of whom 29 completed the 6-month treatment evaluation. Participants had confirmed amyloid and tau pathology and met clinical criteria (CDR ≤ 1, CDR-SB ≤ 8and MMSE ≥ 18). Comprehensive assessments included neuropsychological testing, CSF and plasma biomarkers (Lumipulse G1200), multi-sequence 3T MRI (volumetric and ALPS index analysis), and amyloid/tau PET imaging (Centiloid quantification). All were monitored for adverse reactions. Matched control groups (matched for sex, age, APOE genotype, disease severity, and baseline therapy) were established for comparison of longitudinally changes in cognitive function, daily living ability and structure MRI.
RESULTS: Treatment was effective even for patients with lower MMSE scores but still classified as having mild dementia by CDR. A significant median Centiloid reduction of 30.9 was observed, with a 24.1% amyloid PET negativity rate after six months. While scores on cognitive and functional scales (CDR-SB, ADL) significantly worsened, indicating disease progression, the rate of progression was significantly slower compared to the control group. Structural MRI showed significant volume reduction in multiple brain regions and increased ventricular volume post-treatment, with no statistically significant change in the ALPS value. The rate of brain volume reduction is faster than that in the control group. Plasma biomarker dynamics (Aβ42, GFAP) indicated effective disease-modifying therapy. Greater Centiloid reduction was linked to more brain volume loss, higher baseline Centiloid levels, higher plasma Aβ42 increase and older age of onset. APOE ɛ4 homozygotes showed less Centiloid reduction. A favorable safety profile was observed, with a 7.1% incidence of asymptomatic, mild ARIA.
CONCLUSIONS: This study confirms the clinical efficacy, biomarker changes, and safety profile of lecanemab treatment over a 6-month period, demonstrating its positive therapeutic value and a favorable safety profile in the Chinese population with AD.
Additional Links: PMID-41520099
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid41520099,
year = {2026},
author = {Mao, C and Wang, W and Huang, X and Wu, M and Wang, Y and Wang, T and Qiu, Y and Chu, S and Jin, W and Jiang, Y and Bao, J and You, Y and Li, Y and Dong, L and Feng, F and Huo, L and Qiu, L and Gao, J},
title = {Real world clinical practice of lecanemab at PUMCH dementia cohort: focus on dynamic imaging and biomarker evolution.},
journal = {Alzheimer's research & therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s13195-025-01943-z},
pmid = {41520099},
issn = {1758-9193},
support = {2021-I2M-1-020//CAMS Innovation fund for medical sciences (CIFMS)/ ; 2022-PUMCH-A-254//National High Level Hospital Clinical Research Funding/ ; 2020YFA0804500, 2020YFA0804501//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Lecanemab is an anti-Aβ antibody approved in China for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and mild dementia. Real-world application requires comprehensive assessment beyond MMSE scores, considering factors like ARIA risk. This single-center, real-world study aims to evaluate its efficacy in an expanded population, observe biomarker changes, and assess its safety profile in clinical practice.
METHODS: We recruited adults aged 40-90 with early AD from the PUMCH Dementia Cohort. A total of 42 patients received lecanemab treatment, of whom 29 completed the 6-month treatment evaluation. Participants had confirmed amyloid and tau pathology and met clinical criteria (CDR ≤ 1, CDR-SB ≤ 8and MMSE ≥ 18). Comprehensive assessments included neuropsychological testing, CSF and plasma biomarkers (Lumipulse G1200), multi-sequence 3T MRI (volumetric and ALPS index analysis), and amyloid/tau PET imaging (Centiloid quantification). All were monitored for adverse reactions. Matched control groups (matched for sex, age, APOE genotype, disease severity, and baseline therapy) were established for comparison of longitudinally changes in cognitive function, daily living ability and structure MRI.
RESULTS: Treatment was effective even for patients with lower MMSE scores but still classified as having mild dementia by CDR. A significant median Centiloid reduction of 30.9 was observed, with a 24.1% amyloid PET negativity rate after six months. While scores on cognitive and functional scales (CDR-SB, ADL) significantly worsened, indicating disease progression, the rate of progression was significantly slower compared to the control group. Structural MRI showed significant volume reduction in multiple brain regions and increased ventricular volume post-treatment, with no statistically significant change in the ALPS value. The rate of brain volume reduction is faster than that in the control group. Plasma biomarker dynamics (Aβ42, GFAP) indicated effective disease-modifying therapy. Greater Centiloid reduction was linked to more brain volume loss, higher baseline Centiloid levels, higher plasma Aβ42 increase and older age of onset. APOE ɛ4 homozygotes showed less Centiloid reduction. A favorable safety profile was observed, with a 7.1% incidence of asymptomatic, mild ARIA.
CONCLUSIONS: This study confirms the clinical efficacy, biomarker changes, and safety profile of lecanemab treatment over a 6-month period, demonstrating its positive therapeutic value and a favorable safety profile in the Chinese population with AD.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-16
Elevated FKBP5 expression associates with epilepsy-related molecular changes and promotes neuronal hyperexcitability.
Brain research, 1874:150157 pii:S0006-8993(26)00015-6 [Epub ahead of print].
OBJECTIVE: Epilepsy is one of the neurological disorders, characterized by recurrent, spontaneous seizures arising from neuronal hyperexcitability and hypersynchrony in the brain. The mechanisms of epilepsy are intricate and remain elusive. FKBP5 has emerged as a significant protein implicated in neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). This study aims to investigate the role of FKBP5 in a kainic acid (KA)-induced intrahippocampal epilepsy model and assessed how FKBP5 gain-of-function and FKBP51 inhibition influence neurotransmitter dynamics and neuronal excitability.
METHODS: We examined the expression of FKBP5 in the hippocampus of the kainic acid (KA)-induced epilepsy model. To explore the impact of FKBP5 on neuronal activity, we overexpressed FKBP5 in primary cortical neurons and astrocytes, assessing extracellular glutamate levels in neuron-astrocytes co-cultures with or without the FKBP51-selective inhibitor SAFit2 (250 nM). Intrinsic excitability, voltage-gated Na[+] currents, and network activity were evaluated using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings and high-density microelectrode arrays (HD-MEAs).
RESULTS: We observed an elevated level of FKBP5 in the hippocampus of a kainic acid (KA)-induced chronic epilepsy mouse model, whereas cortical FKBP5 did not show clear changes across the examined post-insult time points.. Moreover, FKBP5 overexpression induced a remarkable increase in the extracellular glutamate level in co-cultured primary cortical neurons and astrocytes. Intriguingly, FKBP5 overexpression modifies the electrophysiological properties of primary neurons, resulting in increased intrinsic excitability and enhanced Na[+] currents. Additionally, the network activity exhibits hyperexcitability with FKBP5 overexpression. Notably, SAFit2 treatment was also associated with elevated extracellular glutamate in the co-culture system, while intracellular FKBP5 and EAAT2 protein levels showed no significant group differences in the current dataset.
CONCLUSION: These findings suggested that FKBP5 played a significant role in regulating neuronal excitability and extracellular glutamate homeostasis. However, due to discrete sampling and the lack of continuous seizure monitoring, the present in vivo data do not establish a definitive causal contribution of FKBP5 to epileptogenesis, warranting future studies integrating longitudinal EEG and cell-type-specific manipulations.
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@article {pmid41519279,
year = {2026},
author = {Cai, M and Wang, S and Liu, M and Lai, B and Chen, C and Ding, J and Wang, X},
title = {Elevated FKBP5 expression associates with epilepsy-related molecular changes and promotes neuronal hyperexcitability.},
journal = {Brain research},
volume = {1874},
number = {},
pages = {150157},
doi = {10.1016/j.brainres.2026.150157},
pmid = {41519279},
issn = {1872-6240},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Epilepsy is one of the neurological disorders, characterized by recurrent, spontaneous seizures arising from neuronal hyperexcitability and hypersynchrony in the brain. The mechanisms of epilepsy are intricate and remain elusive. FKBP5 has emerged as a significant protein implicated in neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). This study aims to investigate the role of FKBP5 in a kainic acid (KA)-induced intrahippocampal epilepsy model and assessed how FKBP5 gain-of-function and FKBP51 inhibition influence neurotransmitter dynamics and neuronal excitability.
METHODS: We examined the expression of FKBP5 in the hippocampus of the kainic acid (KA)-induced epilepsy model. To explore the impact of FKBP5 on neuronal activity, we overexpressed FKBP5 in primary cortical neurons and astrocytes, assessing extracellular glutamate levels in neuron-astrocytes co-cultures with or without the FKBP51-selective inhibitor SAFit2 (250 nM). Intrinsic excitability, voltage-gated Na[+] currents, and network activity were evaluated using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings and high-density microelectrode arrays (HD-MEAs).
RESULTS: We observed an elevated level of FKBP5 in the hippocampus of a kainic acid (KA)-induced chronic epilepsy mouse model, whereas cortical FKBP5 did not show clear changes across the examined post-insult time points.. Moreover, FKBP5 overexpression induced a remarkable increase in the extracellular glutamate level in co-cultured primary cortical neurons and astrocytes. Intriguingly, FKBP5 overexpression modifies the electrophysiological properties of primary neurons, resulting in increased intrinsic excitability and enhanced Na[+] currents. Additionally, the network activity exhibits hyperexcitability with FKBP5 overexpression. Notably, SAFit2 treatment was also associated with elevated extracellular glutamate in the co-culture system, while intracellular FKBP5 and EAAT2 protein levels showed no significant group differences in the current dataset.
CONCLUSION: These findings suggested that FKBP5 played a significant role in regulating neuronal excitability and extracellular glutamate homeostasis. However, due to discrete sampling and the lack of continuous seizure monitoring, the present in vivo data do not establish a definitive causal contribution of FKBP5 to epileptogenesis, warranting future studies integrating longitudinal EEG and cell-type-specific manipulations.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-10
Insights into Mechanism of Ionic Liquids for Protein Stability: Future Implications for Neurodegeneration Treatment.
Ageing research reviews pii:S1568-1637(26)00016-4 [Epub ahead of print].
Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by a gradual loss of neurons, cellular dysfunction, loss of intricate synaptic networks and brain damage, which are going to be the second leading cause of death in future. These proteinopathies are marked by abnormal amyloid fibril deposition, aberrant aggregation of misfolded proteins via polymerization, where protein aggregates serve as key pathological hallmarks in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and multiple system atrophy disorders. These toxic aggregates accumulate in the brain and disrupt neuronal function targeting motor neurons, spinal cord, and ultimately leading to respiratory failure and death. As population age, the prevalence of these neuronal disorders rises significantly, emphasizing to approach effective treatment for risk reduction. In the pursuit of developing effective anti-amyloidogenesis therapeutic agents, ionic liquids (ILs) continue to receive least attention. ILs have emerged as promising substitute for conventional solvents, owing to their unique physicochemical properties that facilitate protein refolding, mitigate denaturation, amyloidogenesis, and prevent aggregation. This review critically addresses intricate IL-protein interactions, dictated by anions-cations composition of ILs, their polarity, hydrophobicity, kosmotropicity, chaotropicity, amphiphillicity, and network, which modulate protein behavior and support structural and functional integrity. This article also underscores the need for precision in IL selection, ensuring their properties align with the desired structural outcome. We showcase ILs as a promising therapeutic avenue for neurodegenerative diseases, demonstrating their potential to modulate pathological protein aggregation and enhance protein homeostasis. Lastly, this review of outstanding research works, account for current lacunae that will guide future perspectives for the rational designing of IL for protein stabilization and offers new strategies for addressing underlying mechanism of ageing disorders.
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@article {pmid41519243,
year = {2026},
author = {Sharma, K and Shahid, M and Patel, R and Islam, A},
title = {Insights into Mechanism of Ionic Liquids for Protein Stability: Future Implications for Neurodegeneration Treatment.},
journal = {Ageing research reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {103024},
doi = {10.1016/j.arr.2026.103024},
pmid = {41519243},
issn = {1872-9649},
abstract = {Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by a gradual loss of neurons, cellular dysfunction, loss of intricate synaptic networks and brain damage, which are going to be the second leading cause of death in future. These proteinopathies are marked by abnormal amyloid fibril deposition, aberrant aggregation of misfolded proteins via polymerization, where protein aggregates serve as key pathological hallmarks in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and multiple system atrophy disorders. These toxic aggregates accumulate in the brain and disrupt neuronal function targeting motor neurons, spinal cord, and ultimately leading to respiratory failure and death. As population age, the prevalence of these neuronal disorders rises significantly, emphasizing to approach effective treatment for risk reduction. In the pursuit of developing effective anti-amyloidogenesis therapeutic agents, ionic liquids (ILs) continue to receive least attention. ILs have emerged as promising substitute for conventional solvents, owing to their unique physicochemical properties that facilitate protein refolding, mitigate denaturation, amyloidogenesis, and prevent aggregation. This review critically addresses intricate IL-protein interactions, dictated by anions-cations composition of ILs, their polarity, hydrophobicity, kosmotropicity, chaotropicity, amphiphillicity, and network, which modulate protein behavior and support structural and functional integrity. This article also underscores the need for precision in IL selection, ensuring their properties align with the desired structural outcome. We showcase ILs as a promising therapeutic avenue for neurodegenerative diseases, demonstrating their potential to modulate pathological protein aggregation and enhance protein homeostasis. Lastly, this review of outstanding research works, account for current lacunae that will guide future perspectives for the rational designing of IL for protein stabilization and offers new strategies for addressing underlying mechanism of ageing disorders.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-15
Receptor tyrosine kinases in Alzheimer's disease: Mechanistic insights and therapeutic implications.
Neurochemistry international, 193:106117 pii:S0197-0186(26)00008-2 [Epub ahead of print].
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder whose pathogenesis remains incompletely understood. It is considered one of the most costly, fatal, and socially burdensome diseases of the twenty-first century. Previous studies have shown that receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) play an important role in the pathological progression of AD. RTKs regulate amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposition and Tau hyperphosphorylation, thereby influencing neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and spatial cognitive function in patients with AD. From a therapeutic perspective, RTK-targeted interventions offer new avenues for AD treatment. Inhibiting specific RTKs can reduce Aβ production and pathological Tau phosphorylation, thereby slowing disease progression. Conversely, activating selected neuroprotective RTKs can promote neuronal survival, restore synaptic function, and ameliorate cognitive impairment. Several small-molecule inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies targeting RTKs have already demonstrated promising therapeutic potential in preclinical studies. Overall, this review systematically summarizes the clinical features and mechanisms of AD, as well as the current applications and future challenges of RTK-based research in neurodegenerative diseases, providing theoretical guidance for the development and repurposing of novel multi-pathway RTK-directed therapies.
Additional Links: PMID-41519166
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41519166,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, P and Cao, Z and Rozpędek-Kamińska, W},
title = {Receptor tyrosine kinases in Alzheimer's disease: Mechanistic insights and therapeutic implications.},
journal = {Neurochemistry international},
volume = {193},
number = {},
pages = {106117},
doi = {10.1016/j.neuint.2026.106117},
pmid = {41519166},
issn = {1872-9754},
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder whose pathogenesis remains incompletely understood. It is considered one of the most costly, fatal, and socially burdensome diseases of the twenty-first century. Previous studies have shown that receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) play an important role in the pathological progression of AD. RTKs regulate amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposition and Tau hyperphosphorylation, thereby influencing neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and spatial cognitive function in patients with AD. From a therapeutic perspective, RTK-targeted interventions offer new avenues for AD treatment. Inhibiting specific RTKs can reduce Aβ production and pathological Tau phosphorylation, thereby slowing disease progression. Conversely, activating selected neuroprotective RTKs can promote neuronal survival, restore synaptic function, and ameliorate cognitive impairment. Several small-molecule inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies targeting RTKs have already demonstrated promising therapeutic potential in preclinical studies. Overall, this review systematically summarizes the clinical features and mechanisms of AD, as well as the current applications and future challenges of RTK-based research in neurodegenerative diseases, providing theoretical guidance for the development and repurposing of novel multi-pathway RTK-directed therapies.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-10
Dual sigma receptor 1 and 2 modulator improves memory behavior in mouse model of age-related cognitive decline.
The Journal of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics, 393(2):103795 pii:S0022-3565(25)40308-5 [Epub ahead of print].
Sigma-1 (S1R) and sigma-2 (S2R) receptors are promising targets for treating Alzheimer disease (AD), playing important roles in cognitive function, with potential to mitigate neuropathology. The dual S1R/S2R receptor modulator (+/-)-cis-1-n-Butyl-8-methoxy-1,2,3a,4,5,9b-hexahydrobenz[e]indole hydrochloride (BBZI) was evaluated in the senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 model of cognitive decline and AD as to behavior and hippocampal expression effects. Chronic BBZI treatment (0, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1.0, or 10 mg/kg, i.p. daily, 27-days) was evaluated using a behavioral battery including open field activity (day-15), elevated plus maze (day-16), Y-maze (day-22), T-maze foot-shock avoidance (days 20 and 27), and novel object recognition (days 23 and 24). No changes were observed in open field, elevated plus maze, Y-maze, or novel object recognition tests at any dose of BBZI as compared with vehicle. BBZI enhanced T-maze foot-shock memory retention at 0.1 (P < .05, Bonferroni) and 1.0 mg/kg (P < .001, Bonferroni) compared with vehicle (day-27). In a separate cohort, a single-injection of BBZI (0, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1 & 1.0 μg, i.c.v.) with testing 7-days later showed a significant effect in the T-maze foot-shock test (P = .011) and enhanced memory retention behavior at 0.01 μg compared with vehicle (P < .05, Bonferroni). Poly(A) RNA sequencing evaluation of hippocampal tissue 24-hours after intracerebroventricular administered BBZI (1.0 μg/μL) versus vehicle showed unique gene expression changes, with notable effects relevant to mitochondrial energetics and synaptic function. Gene enrichment analysis identified affiliations with pathways involved in neurodegenerative disease. This data supports dual S1R/S2R receptor modulation as a promising strategy for AD treatment and identifies potential gene pathways involved. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Dual sigma receptor 1 and 2 modulator BBZI improved memory behavior in senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 mice. Evaluation of senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 hippocampal tissue 24 hours after BBZI (1.0 μg/μL i.c.v.) versus vehicle administration identified gene changes related to mitochondrial energetics and synaptic function. BBZI to mitigates cognitive decline behavior, impacting hippocampal genes critical for brain function.
Additional Links: PMID-41518900
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41518900,
year = {2025},
author = {Loraine, A and Farr, SA and Niehoff, ML and Larrea, IG and Ganev, Y and Samanta, J and Rahman, K and Crider, AM and Sandoval, K and Witt, KA},
title = {Dual sigma receptor 1 and 2 modulator improves memory behavior in mouse model of age-related cognitive decline.},
journal = {The Journal of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics},
volume = {393},
number = {2},
pages = {103795},
doi = {10.1016/j.jpet.2025.103795},
pmid = {41518900},
issn = {1521-0103},
abstract = {Sigma-1 (S1R) and sigma-2 (S2R) receptors are promising targets for treating Alzheimer disease (AD), playing important roles in cognitive function, with potential to mitigate neuropathology. The dual S1R/S2R receptor modulator (+/-)-cis-1-n-Butyl-8-methoxy-1,2,3a,4,5,9b-hexahydrobenz[e]indole hydrochloride (BBZI) was evaluated in the senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 model of cognitive decline and AD as to behavior and hippocampal expression effects. Chronic BBZI treatment (0, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1.0, or 10 mg/kg, i.p. daily, 27-days) was evaluated using a behavioral battery including open field activity (day-15), elevated plus maze (day-16), Y-maze (day-22), T-maze foot-shock avoidance (days 20 and 27), and novel object recognition (days 23 and 24). No changes were observed in open field, elevated plus maze, Y-maze, or novel object recognition tests at any dose of BBZI as compared with vehicle. BBZI enhanced T-maze foot-shock memory retention at 0.1 (P < .05, Bonferroni) and 1.0 mg/kg (P < .001, Bonferroni) compared with vehicle (day-27). In a separate cohort, a single-injection of BBZI (0, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1 & 1.0 μg, i.c.v.) with testing 7-days later showed a significant effect in the T-maze foot-shock test (P = .011) and enhanced memory retention behavior at 0.01 μg compared with vehicle (P < .05, Bonferroni). Poly(A) RNA sequencing evaluation of hippocampal tissue 24-hours after intracerebroventricular administered BBZI (1.0 μg/μL) versus vehicle showed unique gene expression changes, with notable effects relevant to mitochondrial energetics and synaptic function. Gene enrichment analysis identified affiliations with pathways involved in neurodegenerative disease. This data supports dual S1R/S2R receptor modulation as a promising strategy for AD treatment and identifies potential gene pathways involved. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Dual sigma receptor 1 and 2 modulator BBZI improved memory behavior in senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 mice. Evaluation of senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 hippocampal tissue 24 hours after BBZI (1.0 μg/μL i.c.v.) versus vehicle administration identified gene changes related to mitochondrial energetics and synaptic function. BBZI to mitigates cognitive decline behavior, impacting hippocampal genes critical for brain function.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-10
Unveiling the gut-brain axis: How chronic exposure to arsenic-induced microglial pyroptosis drives Alzheimer's disease-like pathology.
Journal of hazardous materials, 503:141087 pii:S0304-3894(26)00065-8 [Epub ahead of print].
Arsenic, a pervasive environmental contaminant in groundwater, poses a severe global threat to public health. Chronic arsenic exposure has been linked to neurological impairment, however, its specific pathogenic mechanism and whether the gut-brain axis plays a key role remain unclear. This study investigated the role of gut microbiota and its metabolite indoxyl sulfate (IS) in mediating chronic exposure to arsenic-induced cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease (AD)-like pathology, with a specific focus on microglial pyroptosis. We found that chronic arsenic exposure induced cognitive dysfunction and intestinal barrier injury, disrupted gut microbiota composition, promoted IS accumulation in serum and brain, and activated the AhR/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway, triggering microglial pyroptosis and elevating AD-like pathological markers in mice. Meanwhile, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from arsenic-exposed mice recapitulated cognitive impairment, elevated IS levels, and neuroinflammation in recipient mice. Furthermore, arsenic upregulated hepatic IS-synthesis genes (CYP2E1, Sult1d1) and downregulated renal IS-excretion gene (ABCG2). In vitro, arsenic and IS co-exposure promoted M1 polarization and enhanced pyroptosis by activating the AhR/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway, while suppressing phagocytosis-related proteins (TREM2, SYK and CD36). Furthermore, SiAhR treatment could alleviated microglial inflammatory injury and enhancing the microglia's phagocytic capacity induced by arsenic and IS co-exposure in BV2 cells through inhibiting the AhR/NF-κB/NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis signaling pathway. In conclusion, chronic arsenic exposure induced cognitive impairment and AD-like pathological via the gut microbiota-AhR-pyroptosis cascade, where in IS accumulation served a key mediator. These findings provide new insights into preventing arsenic-related cognitive damage.
Additional Links: PMID-41518808
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41518808,
year = {2026},
author = {Qu, J and Jiang, X and Ma, Y and Sheng, X and Pi, C and Wang, Y and Xu, Q and Li, R and Wang, P and Qian, D and Wang, J and Yi, Z and Yi, J and Wen, L and Liu, S},
title = {Unveiling the gut-brain axis: How chronic exposure to arsenic-induced microglial pyroptosis drives Alzheimer's disease-like pathology.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {503},
number = {},
pages = {141087},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.141087},
pmid = {41518808},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Arsenic, a pervasive environmental contaminant in groundwater, poses a severe global threat to public health. Chronic arsenic exposure has been linked to neurological impairment, however, its specific pathogenic mechanism and whether the gut-brain axis plays a key role remain unclear. This study investigated the role of gut microbiota and its metabolite indoxyl sulfate (IS) in mediating chronic exposure to arsenic-induced cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease (AD)-like pathology, with a specific focus on microglial pyroptosis. We found that chronic arsenic exposure induced cognitive dysfunction and intestinal barrier injury, disrupted gut microbiota composition, promoted IS accumulation in serum and brain, and activated the AhR/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway, triggering microglial pyroptosis and elevating AD-like pathological markers in mice. Meanwhile, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from arsenic-exposed mice recapitulated cognitive impairment, elevated IS levels, and neuroinflammation in recipient mice. Furthermore, arsenic upregulated hepatic IS-synthesis genes (CYP2E1, Sult1d1) and downregulated renal IS-excretion gene (ABCG2). In vitro, arsenic and IS co-exposure promoted M1 polarization and enhanced pyroptosis by activating the AhR/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway, while suppressing phagocytosis-related proteins (TREM2, SYK and CD36). Furthermore, SiAhR treatment could alleviated microglial inflammatory injury and enhancing the microglia's phagocytic capacity induced by arsenic and IS co-exposure in BV2 cells through inhibiting the AhR/NF-κB/NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis signaling pathway. In conclusion, chronic arsenic exposure induced cognitive impairment and AD-like pathological via the gut microbiota-AhR-pyroptosis cascade, where in IS accumulation served a key mediator. These findings provide new insights into preventing arsenic-related cognitive damage.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-10
CmpDate: 2026-01-10
Fibrillarin: bridging ribosome biogenesis and apoptosis in cellular stress and disease.
Apoptosis : an international journal on programmed cell death, 31(1):11.
Nucleolar stress has emerged as a critical regulatory mechanism linking ribosome biogenesis defects to apoptotic cell death in various pathological conditions. Fibrillarin (FBL), the catalytic component of box C/D small nucleolar ribonucleoproteins, participates in multiple forms of programmed cell death through both p53-dependent and p53-independent pathways across diverse disease contexts including cancer and neurodegeneration. In malignancies including breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma, FBL overexpression promotes apoptosis resistance, whereas in Alzheimer's disease and ALS/FTD, FBL dysfunction contributes to pathological neuronal death. Dysregulation of FBL can lead to excessive apoptosis or apoptosis resistance depending on cellular context and disease state. Various cellular stressors trigger aberrant FBL function, disrupting rRNA processing and ribosome assembly, which then activates nucleolar stress responses that culminate in cell death through ribosomal protein-MDM2-p53 axis activation or selective translational control of survival factors in a context-dependent manner. Therefore, targeting FBL-mediated apoptotic pathways is considered an important avenue for the treatment of various cancers and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we summarize the major and recent findings focusing on the mechanisms of FBL-regulated apoptosis in disease pathogenesis and provide a systematic overview of current therapeutic strategies targeting nucleolar stress pathways, including RNA polymerase I inhibitors and precision medicine approaches based on p53 status, which may provide important therapeutic targets that merit further investigation.
Additional Links: PMID-41518572
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@article {pmid41518572,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, Z and Zhang, M and Cao, Z and Zhao, H and Li, X and Luo, P},
title = {Fibrillarin: bridging ribosome biogenesis and apoptosis in cellular stress and disease.},
journal = {Apoptosis : an international journal on programmed cell death},
volume = {31},
number = {1},
pages = {11},
pmid = {41518572},
issn = {1573-675X},
support = {82171363//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Apoptosis/genetics ; *Ribosomes/metabolism/genetics ; *Neoplasms/genetics/metabolism/pathology ; *Stress, Physiological ; Animals ; Tumor Suppressor Protein p53/metabolism/genetics ; *Neurodegenerative Diseases/genetics/metabolism/pathology ; Cell Nucleolus/metabolism ; Signal Transduction ; Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone ; },
abstract = {Nucleolar stress has emerged as a critical regulatory mechanism linking ribosome biogenesis defects to apoptotic cell death in various pathological conditions. Fibrillarin (FBL), the catalytic component of box C/D small nucleolar ribonucleoproteins, participates in multiple forms of programmed cell death through both p53-dependent and p53-independent pathways across diverse disease contexts including cancer and neurodegeneration. In malignancies including breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma, FBL overexpression promotes apoptosis resistance, whereas in Alzheimer's disease and ALS/FTD, FBL dysfunction contributes to pathological neuronal death. Dysregulation of FBL can lead to excessive apoptosis or apoptosis resistance depending on cellular context and disease state. Various cellular stressors trigger aberrant FBL function, disrupting rRNA processing and ribosome assembly, which then activates nucleolar stress responses that culminate in cell death through ribosomal protein-MDM2-p53 axis activation or selective translational control of survival factors in a context-dependent manner. Therefore, targeting FBL-mediated apoptotic pathways is considered an important avenue for the treatment of various cancers and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we summarize the major and recent findings focusing on the mechanisms of FBL-regulated apoptosis in disease pathogenesis and provide a systematic overview of current therapeutic strategies targeting nucleolar stress pathways, including RNA polymerase I inhibitors and precision medicine approaches based on p53 status, which may provide important therapeutic targets that merit further investigation.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Apoptosis/genetics
*Ribosomes/metabolism/genetics
*Neoplasms/genetics/metabolism/pathology
*Stress, Physiological
Animals
Tumor Suppressor Protein p53/metabolism/genetics
*Neurodegenerative Diseases/genetics/metabolism/pathology
Cell Nucleolus/metabolism
Signal Transduction
Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone
RevDate: 2026-01-10
Metabolomics-Driven Integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Neurological Disorders: From Precision Diagnosis to Therapeutic Innovation.
Phytotherapy research : PTR [Epub ahead of print].
Neurological disorders are leading causes of disability and death worldwide, yet many patients still face delayed diagnosis, limited disease-modifying options and substantial treatment-related adverse effects. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) provides holistic, multi-target interventions through acupuncture, herbal formulas and adjunctive therapies, but its mechanisms remain insufficiently defined. Metabolomics, which enables system-wide profiling of small-molecule metabolites, offers an objective way to characterise disease-related metabolic networks and quantify the global effects of TCM. We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science and China National Knowledge Infrastructure for studies published between January 2005 and June 2025 that evaluated TCM-related interventions for neurological disorders and reported metabolomic outcomes. Peer-reviewed animal and clinical studies were included, whereas reviews, conference abstracts, methodological-only papers and non-neurological studies were excluded. Across Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS), ischaemic stroke (IS), epilepsy and high-altitude cerebral oedema (HACE), consistent alterations were identified in amino acid, lipid and energy-related pathways, such as nicotinamide and lysophosphatidylcholine species in AD, branched-chain amino acids in PD and phenylalanine and asymmetric dimethylarginine in MS. Metabolomics studies indicate that acupuncture and herbal formulas can jointly modulate neurotransmitter balance, cerebral energy metabolism, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation and blood-brain barrier integrity. Emerging spatial metabolomics based on mass spectrometry imaging links individual TCM components, including ginsenosides and Astragalus membranaceus-Carthamus tinctorius decoctions, to region-specific metabolic reprogramming in the cortex, hippocampus and thalamus. However, most metabolite-disease associations are correlative and are constrained by small sample sizes, heterogeneous designs and lack of technical standardisation. Metabolomics therefore provides a quantitative framework to dissect the multi-target mechanisms of TCM in neurology and to connect molecular changes with functional outcomes. Standardised workflows, larger multicentre clinical studies and integration of spatial metabolomics, multi-omics and artificial-intelligence-based analysis are required to translate these findings into TCM-informed precision diagnosis and personalised treatment for neurological disorders.
Additional Links: PMID-41518096
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid41518096,
year = {2026},
author = {Mai, D and Li, Z and Cao, Z and Lin, P and Tan, J and Li, R and Ye, Q},
title = {Metabolomics-Driven Integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Neurological Disorders: From Precision Diagnosis to Therapeutic Innovation.},
journal = {Phytotherapy research : PTR},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ptr.70182},
pmid = {41518096},
issn = {1099-1573},
support = {20251026//Guangdong Provincial Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ ; SEZYY2023A13//the Second Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Guangdong Province/ ; },
abstract = {Neurological disorders are leading causes of disability and death worldwide, yet many patients still face delayed diagnosis, limited disease-modifying options and substantial treatment-related adverse effects. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) provides holistic, multi-target interventions through acupuncture, herbal formulas and adjunctive therapies, but its mechanisms remain insufficiently defined. Metabolomics, which enables system-wide profiling of small-molecule metabolites, offers an objective way to characterise disease-related metabolic networks and quantify the global effects of TCM. We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science and China National Knowledge Infrastructure for studies published between January 2005 and June 2025 that evaluated TCM-related interventions for neurological disorders and reported metabolomic outcomes. Peer-reviewed animal and clinical studies were included, whereas reviews, conference abstracts, methodological-only papers and non-neurological studies were excluded. Across Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS), ischaemic stroke (IS), epilepsy and high-altitude cerebral oedema (HACE), consistent alterations were identified in amino acid, lipid and energy-related pathways, such as nicotinamide and lysophosphatidylcholine species in AD, branched-chain amino acids in PD and phenylalanine and asymmetric dimethylarginine in MS. Metabolomics studies indicate that acupuncture and herbal formulas can jointly modulate neurotransmitter balance, cerebral energy metabolism, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation and blood-brain barrier integrity. Emerging spatial metabolomics based on mass spectrometry imaging links individual TCM components, including ginsenosides and Astragalus membranaceus-Carthamus tinctorius decoctions, to region-specific metabolic reprogramming in the cortex, hippocampus and thalamus. However, most metabolite-disease associations are correlative and are constrained by small sample sizes, heterogeneous designs and lack of technical standardisation. Metabolomics therefore provides a quantitative framework to dissect the multi-target mechanisms of TCM in neurology and to connect molecular changes with functional outcomes. Standardised workflows, larger multicentre clinical studies and integration of spatial metabolomics, multi-omics and artificial-intelligence-based analysis are required to translate these findings into TCM-informed precision diagnosis and personalised treatment for neurological disorders.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-14
CmpDate: 2026-01-10
Safety, Tolerability, and Pharmacokinetics of Single Doses of ABBV-916, an Anti-Amyloid Antibody, in Healthy Participants.
Clinical and translational science, 19(1):e70419.
Amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaque brain clearance is one of the promising disease-modifying treatment approaches to slow cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease (AD). ABBV-916, an anti-amyloid antibody, was being developed as an early AD disease-modifying treatment. A phase 1, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled single ascending dose (SAD) study investigated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), and immunogenicity of ABBV-916 in healthy participants. Five groups of participants were enrolled and randomized 6:2 to receive ABBV-916 (100, 300, 1000, or 3000 mg) or placebo by intravenous (IV) infusion or subcutaneous (SC) injection (300-mg dose only). After dosing, participants were followed for 20 weeks for assessments. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected after dosing 1000 mg IV for determination of ABBV-916 levels in the CSF. ABBV-916 single doses up to 3000 mg were well tolerated in healthy participants. No clinically significant laboratory findings, amyloid-related imaging abnormalities, or serious adverse events were reported. The ABBV-916 PK profile exhibited dose-related increases in maximum concentration and area under the plasma concentration-time curve with terminal elimination half-life ranging from 29 to 40 days across the cohorts. The estimated absolute bioavailability after SC dosing was 51%. The average CSF-to-serum partition ratio was 0.12% (range 0.10%-0.21%). Positive anti-drug antibody was detected in < 7% of participants, which was transient, at low titer, and did not affect ABBV-916 PK. This study demonstrated desirable safety, tolerability, and PK profile of ABBV-916 after single-dose administration in healthy participants. The data supported further evaluation of ABBV-916 multiple IV and SC doses in patients with AD.
Additional Links: PMID-41517979
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@article {pmid41517979,
year = {2026},
author = {Bachhav, SS and Florian, H and Boiser, J and Wang, Y and Shiller, DD and Graab, U and Lynch, SY and Graff, O and Xiong, H},
title = {Safety, Tolerability, and Pharmacokinetics of Single Doses of ABBV-916, an Anti-Amyloid Antibody, in Healthy Participants.},
journal = {Clinical and translational science},
volume = {19},
number = {1},
pages = {e70419},
pmid = {41517979},
issn = {1752-8062},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; Double-Blind Method ; Healthy Volunteers ; Adult ; *Amyloid beta-Peptides/immunology/antagonists & inhibitors ; Middle Aged ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; *Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/administration & dosage/pharmacokinetics/adverse effects ; Infusions, Intravenous ; Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy ; Injections, Subcutaneous ; Young Adult ; },
abstract = {Amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaque brain clearance is one of the promising disease-modifying treatment approaches to slow cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease (AD). ABBV-916, an anti-amyloid antibody, was being developed as an early AD disease-modifying treatment. A phase 1, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled single ascending dose (SAD) study investigated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), and immunogenicity of ABBV-916 in healthy participants. Five groups of participants were enrolled and randomized 6:2 to receive ABBV-916 (100, 300, 1000, or 3000 mg) or placebo by intravenous (IV) infusion or subcutaneous (SC) injection (300-mg dose only). After dosing, participants were followed for 20 weeks for assessments. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected after dosing 1000 mg IV for determination of ABBV-916 levels in the CSF. ABBV-916 single doses up to 3000 mg were well tolerated in healthy participants. No clinically significant laboratory findings, amyloid-related imaging abnormalities, or serious adverse events were reported. The ABBV-916 PK profile exhibited dose-related increases in maximum concentration and area under the plasma concentration-time curve with terminal elimination half-life ranging from 29 to 40 days across the cohorts. The estimated absolute bioavailability after SC dosing was 51%. The average CSF-to-serum partition ratio was 0.12% (range 0.10%-0.21%). Positive anti-drug antibody was detected in < 7% of participants, which was transient, at low titer, and did not affect ABBV-916 PK. This study demonstrated desirable safety, tolerability, and PK profile of ABBV-916 after single-dose administration in healthy participants. The data supported further evaluation of ABBV-916 multiple IV and SC doses in patients with AD.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Male
Female
Double-Blind Method
Healthy Volunteers
Adult
*Amyloid beta-Peptides/immunology/antagonists & inhibitors
Middle Aged
Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
*Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/administration & dosage/pharmacokinetics/adverse effects
Infusions, Intravenous
Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy
Injections, Subcutaneous
Young Adult
RevDate: 2026-01-13
CmpDate: 2026-01-10
Advancing global dementia research through equity and inclusion.
Alzheimer's & dementia : the journal of the Alzheimer's Association, 22(1):e71069.
Despite the global burden of dementia, research remains dominated by high-income, Western populations, limiting the generalizability and equity of findings. In this Perspective, we highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion in dementia research, not only in study participants but also in the researchers, study design, and funding priorities. We describe how the lack of representation creates knowledge gaps and delays progress in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. We also present examples of initiatives that are working to change this, including the Alzheimer's Disease Data Initiative and the William H. Gates Sr. Fellowship program, which supports open science, international collaboration, and early-career researchers from underrepresented regions. These efforts demonstrate that diversity is not only an ethical goal, but a scientific need. More inclusive and global research could lead to discoveries that are more generalizable, more globally applicable, and better able to inform strategies to address dementia across all communities. HIGHLIGHTS: Prioritize representation in datasets across ethnicity, geography, sex/gender, and socio-economic status. Support early-career researchers from underrepresented regions with long-term funding and mentorship. Standardize and adapt tools (cognitive, clinical, genomic) across cultural and linguistic contexts. Promote open science through equitable, federated data sharing platforms, and embed community engagement from research design to dissemination. Value diversity as a driver of discovery, not as a confounder.
Additional Links: PMID-41517961
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@article {pmid41517961,
year = {2026},
author = {Vilor-Tejedor, N and Danso, S and Albanus, RD and Billingsley, K and Evans, TE and Lee, LY and Wang, S and Jiang, J and Liu, H and Ross, J and Chilla, G},
title = {Advancing global dementia research through equity and inclusion.},
journal = {Alzheimer's & dementia : the journal of the Alzheimer's Association},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {e71069},
pmid = {41517961},
issn = {1552-5279},
support = {//Alzheimer's Disease Data Initiative/ ; RYC2022-038136-I//Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation-State Research Agency,/ ; PID2022-143106OA-I00//European Union FSE+/ ; 23S06083-001//European Union FEDER/ ; //Ajuntament de Barcelona/ ; //la Caixa Foundation/ ; VCID-UMD-26-1514428//AD Strategic Fund: Vascular Contributions to Cognitive Impairment and Dementia-Understanding Mechanisms of Dysfunction/ ; 25AARF-1377279 (2025-2029)//Alzheimer's Association Research postdoctoral fellowship/ ; WE.03-2024-07(2025-2027)//Alzheimer's Association Research postdoctoral fellowship/ ; //Intramural Research Programs of the National Institute on Aging (NIA)/ ; //National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)/ ; Z01-AG000949//National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services/ ; 1ZIANS003154//National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services/ ; P30AG072976//National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services/ ; R01AG081693//National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Dementia ; *Biomedical Research ; Global Health ; },
abstract = {Despite the global burden of dementia, research remains dominated by high-income, Western populations, limiting the generalizability and equity of findings. In this Perspective, we highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion in dementia research, not only in study participants but also in the researchers, study design, and funding priorities. We describe how the lack of representation creates knowledge gaps and delays progress in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. We also present examples of initiatives that are working to change this, including the Alzheimer's Disease Data Initiative and the William H. Gates Sr. Fellowship program, which supports open science, international collaboration, and early-career researchers from underrepresented regions. These efforts demonstrate that diversity is not only an ethical goal, but a scientific need. More inclusive and global research could lead to discoveries that are more generalizable, more globally applicable, and better able to inform strategies to address dementia across all communities. HIGHLIGHTS: Prioritize representation in datasets across ethnicity, geography, sex/gender, and socio-economic status. Support early-career researchers from underrepresented regions with long-term funding and mentorship. Standardize and adapt tools (cognitive, clinical, genomic) across cultural and linguistic contexts. Promote open science through equitable, federated data sharing platforms, and embed community engagement from research design to dissemination. Value diversity as a driver of discovery, not as a confounder.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Humans
*Dementia
*Biomedical Research
Global Health
RevDate: 2026-01-16
CmpDate: 2026-01-10
From Ablation to Neuromodulation Platform: The Evolving Role of Magnetic Resonance-Guided Focused Ultrasound in Functional Neurosurgery.
Journal of clinical neurology (Seoul, Korea), 22(1):17-41.
Magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) has rapidly evolved from an experimental concept into a versatile platform in functional neurosurgery. Initially pioneered as a noninvasive thermal ablation modality for essential tremor, MRgFUS has since gained regulatory approval and demonstrated durable long-term efficacy. Its clinical applications have expanded to include Parkinson's disease, chronic pain, psychiatric disorders, and investigational use in dystonia, epilepsy, and brain tumors. Beyond lesioning, low-intensity focused ultrasound enables reversible neuromodulation and transient blood-brain barrier opening, facilitating drug and gene delivery in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and glioblastoma. Comparative analyses highlight MRgFUS as an incisionless alternative to traditional modalities like deep brain stimulation, radiofrequency ablation, and radiosurgery, offering unique advantages in precision, safety, and patient acceptability while retaining certain limitations, including irreversibility and eligibility constraints due to skull properties. Emerging innovations-such as dual-target strategies, staged bilateral procedures, adaptive focusing technologies, and integration with immuno- or gene therapies-are expanding its therapeutic potential. Collectively, these advances position MRgFUS as not only an ablative tool but also a transformative neuromodulation platform with broad implications for the treatment of movement disorders, neuropsychiatric disease, and neurodegeneration.
Additional Links: PMID-41517810
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41517810,
year = {2026},
author = {Lee, S and Chang, JW},
title = {From Ablation to Neuromodulation Platform: The Evolving Role of Magnetic Resonance-Guided Focused Ultrasound in Functional Neurosurgery.},
journal = {Journal of clinical neurology (Seoul, Korea)},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {17-41},
pmid = {41517810},
issn = {1738-6586},
support = {/HI/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {Magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) has rapidly evolved from an experimental concept into a versatile platform in functional neurosurgery. Initially pioneered as a noninvasive thermal ablation modality for essential tremor, MRgFUS has since gained regulatory approval and demonstrated durable long-term efficacy. Its clinical applications have expanded to include Parkinson's disease, chronic pain, psychiatric disorders, and investigational use in dystonia, epilepsy, and brain tumors. Beyond lesioning, low-intensity focused ultrasound enables reversible neuromodulation and transient blood-brain barrier opening, facilitating drug and gene delivery in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and glioblastoma. Comparative analyses highlight MRgFUS as an incisionless alternative to traditional modalities like deep brain stimulation, radiofrequency ablation, and radiosurgery, offering unique advantages in precision, safety, and patient acceptability while retaining certain limitations, including irreversibility and eligibility constraints due to skull properties. Emerging innovations-such as dual-target strategies, staged bilateral procedures, adaptive focusing technologies, and integration with immuno- or gene therapies-are expanding its therapeutic potential. Collectively, these advances position MRgFUS as not only an ablative tool but also a transformative neuromodulation platform with broad implications for the treatment of movement disorders, neuropsychiatric disease, and neurodegeneration.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-13
CmpDate: 2026-01-10
Emerging Oculomic Signatures: Linking Thickness of Entire Retinal Layers with Plasma Biomarkers in Preclinical Alzheimer's Disease.
Journal of clinical medicine, 15(1):.
Background/Objectives: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia, which is an inevitable consequence of aging. Early detection of AD, or detection during the pre-AD stage, is beneficial, as it enables timely intervention to reduce modifiable risk factors, which may help prevent or delay the progression to dementia. On the one hand, plasma biomarkers have demonstrated great promise in predicting cognitive decline. On the other hand, in recent years, ocular imaging features, particularly the thickness of retinal layers measured by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), are emerging as possible non-invasive, non-contact surrogate markers for early detection and monitoring of neurodegeneration. This pilot study aims to identify retinal layer thickness changes across the entire retina linked to plasma AD biomarkers in cognitively healthy (CH) elderly individuals at risk for AD. Methods: Eleven CH individuals (20 eyes total) were classified in the pre-AD stage by plasma β-amyloid (Aβ)42/40 ratio < 0.10 and underwent SD-OCT. A deep-learning-derived automated algorithm was used to segment retinal layers on OCT (with manual correction when needed). Multiple layer thicknesses throughout the entire retina (including the inner retina, the outer retina, and the choroid) were measured in the inner ring (1-3 mm) and outer ring (3-6 mm) of the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS). Relationships between retinal layers and plasma biomarkers were analyzed by ridge regression/bootstrapping. Results: Results showed that photoreceptor inner segment (PR-IS) thinning had the largest size effect with neurofilament light chain. Additional findings revealed thinning or thickening of the other retinal layers in association with increasing levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein and phosphorylated tau at threonine 181 and 217 (p-tau181 and p-tau217). Conclusions: This pilot study suggests that retinal layer-specific signatures exist, with PR-IS thinning as the largest effect, indicating neurodegeneration in pre-AD. Further research is needed to confirm the findings of this pilot study using larger longitudinal pre-AD cohorts and comparative analyses with healthy aging adults.
Additional Links: PMID-41517524
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41517524,
year = {2025},
author = {Abboud, I and Xu, E and Xu, S and Alhasany, A and Wang, Z and Wu, X and Astraea, N and Jiang, F and Hu, ZJ and Chan, JW},
title = {Emerging Oculomic Signatures: Linking Thickness of Entire Retinal Layers with Plasma Biomarkers in Preclinical Alzheimer's Disease.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41517524},
issn = {2077-0383},
support = {UL1 TR001872/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia, which is an inevitable consequence of aging. Early detection of AD, or detection during the pre-AD stage, is beneficial, as it enables timely intervention to reduce modifiable risk factors, which may help prevent or delay the progression to dementia. On the one hand, plasma biomarkers have demonstrated great promise in predicting cognitive decline. On the other hand, in recent years, ocular imaging features, particularly the thickness of retinal layers measured by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), are emerging as possible non-invasive, non-contact surrogate markers for early detection and monitoring of neurodegeneration. This pilot study aims to identify retinal layer thickness changes across the entire retina linked to plasma AD biomarkers in cognitively healthy (CH) elderly individuals at risk for AD. Methods: Eleven CH individuals (20 eyes total) were classified in the pre-AD stage by plasma β-amyloid (Aβ)42/40 ratio < 0.10 and underwent SD-OCT. A deep-learning-derived automated algorithm was used to segment retinal layers on OCT (with manual correction when needed). Multiple layer thicknesses throughout the entire retina (including the inner retina, the outer retina, and the choroid) were measured in the inner ring (1-3 mm) and outer ring (3-6 mm) of the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS). Relationships between retinal layers and plasma biomarkers were analyzed by ridge regression/bootstrapping. Results: Results showed that photoreceptor inner segment (PR-IS) thinning had the largest size effect with neurofilament light chain. Additional findings revealed thinning or thickening of the other retinal layers in association with increasing levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein and phosphorylated tau at threonine 181 and 217 (p-tau181 and p-tau217). Conclusions: This pilot study suggests that retinal layer-specific signatures exist, with PR-IS thinning as the largest effect, indicating neurodegeneration in pre-AD. Further research is needed to confirm the findings of this pilot study using larger longitudinal pre-AD cohorts and comparative analyses with healthy aging adults.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-13
CmpDate: 2026-01-10
Mutant Tau (P301L) Enhances Global Protein Translation in Differentiated SH-SY5Y Cells by Upregulating mTOR Signalling.
International journal of molecular sciences, 27(1):.
Altered protein synthesis plays a key role in ageing and multiple neurodegenerative diseases. In Alzheimer's disease and other tauopathies, the intracellular accumulation of hyperphosphorylated Tau disrupts several cellular processes, including mRNA translation. Although Tau interacts with ribosomal proteins and modulates translational selectivity, its effects on global protein synthesis remain poorly understood. Studies report reduced translation in later disease stages but increased translation early in pathology. To clarify Tau's impact in human neurons, we used SH-SY5Y cells overexpressing the P301L mutant form of Tau and quantified global protein synthesis using the SUnSET (Surface Sensing of Translation) puromycin-incorporation assay. We found that Tau-P301L expression greatly increased global translation by upregulating mTOR/S6 pathway. These effects were abolished by rapamycin treatment, indicating that Tau-driven translational upregulation is mTOR-dependent. Given that impaired translational control can disrupt synaptic plasticity and memory, Tau-induced alterations in protein synthesis may contribute to tauopathy progression and identify mTOR signalling as a potential therapeutic target.
Additional Links: PMID-41516328
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Citation:
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@article {pmid41516328,
year = {2026},
author = {Cipriano, GL and Floramo, A and Argento, V and Oddo, S and Artimagnella, O},
title = {Mutant Tau (P301L) Enhances Global Protein Translation in Differentiated SH-SY5Y Cells by Upregulating mTOR Signalling.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41516328},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {RRC-2025-23686388//Ministero della Salute/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases/metabolism/genetics ; *tau Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; *Protein Biosynthesis ; *Signal Transduction ; Up-Regulation ; Cell Line, Tumor ; *Mutation ; Neurons/metabolism ; Sirolimus/pharmacology ; Cell Differentiation ; },
abstract = {Altered protein synthesis plays a key role in ageing and multiple neurodegenerative diseases. In Alzheimer's disease and other tauopathies, the intracellular accumulation of hyperphosphorylated Tau disrupts several cellular processes, including mRNA translation. Although Tau interacts with ribosomal proteins and modulates translational selectivity, its effects on global protein synthesis remain poorly understood. Studies report reduced translation in later disease stages but increased translation early in pathology. To clarify Tau's impact in human neurons, we used SH-SY5Y cells overexpressing the P301L mutant form of Tau and quantified global protein synthesis using the SUnSET (Surface Sensing of Translation) puromycin-incorporation assay. We found that Tau-P301L expression greatly increased global translation by upregulating mTOR/S6 pathway. These effects were abolished by rapamycin treatment, indicating that Tau-driven translational upregulation is mTOR-dependent. Given that impaired translational control can disrupt synaptic plasticity and memory, Tau-induced alterations in protein synthesis may contribute to tauopathy progression and identify mTOR signalling as a potential therapeutic target.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases/metabolism/genetics
*tau Proteins/genetics/metabolism
*Protein Biosynthesis
*Signal Transduction
Up-Regulation
Cell Line, Tumor
*Mutation
Neurons/metabolism
Sirolimus/pharmacology
Cell Differentiation
RevDate: 2026-01-13
CmpDate: 2026-01-10
Signaling Molecules and Diagnosis of Cognitive Disorders: Current State and Prospects.
International journal of molecular sciences, 27(1):.
Cognitive disorders present significant medical and social challenges nowadays, due to their high prevalence, progressive course and a lack of effective methods for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and comorbid pathologies. An important area of research is the identification of molecular biomarkers that reflect early pathophysiological changes and facilitate a more accurate biological characterization of cognitive impairment. This study provides an overview of the most relevant signaling molecules for diagnosing cognitive disorders. It presents data on the effectiveness of using comprehensive panels of molecular biomarkers in clinical practice, including β-amyloid, CD34, claudin, DRP1, endothelin-1, NF-kB, PINK1, RAGE, S100, α-synuclein, and tau protein, in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VD). The study results demonstrate that cumulative changes in the expression of signaling molecules reflect various neurodegenerative and vascular-associated biological processes. The data obtained are comparative in nature and require further validation before potential clinical application.
Additional Links: PMID-41516246
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41516246,
year = {2025},
author = {Kvetnoy, I and Kheyfets, O and Safaniev, L and Kheifets, V and Mironova, E and Kvetnaia, T and Mazzoccoli, G and Prashchayeu, K and Gavrilova, A},
title = {Signaling Molecules and Diagnosis of Cognitive Disorders: Current State and Prospects.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41516246},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; Biomarkers/metabolism ; *Signal Transduction ; *Alzheimer Disease/metabolism/diagnosis ; Dementia, Vascular/metabolism/diagnosis ; *Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/metabolism ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnosis/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Cognitive disorders present significant medical and social challenges nowadays, due to their high prevalence, progressive course and a lack of effective methods for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and comorbid pathologies. An important area of research is the identification of molecular biomarkers that reflect early pathophysiological changes and facilitate a more accurate biological characterization of cognitive impairment. This study provides an overview of the most relevant signaling molecules for diagnosing cognitive disorders. It presents data on the effectiveness of using comprehensive panels of molecular biomarkers in clinical practice, including β-amyloid, CD34, claudin, DRP1, endothelin-1, NF-kB, PINK1, RAGE, S100, α-synuclein, and tau protein, in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VD). The study results demonstrate that cumulative changes in the expression of signaling molecules reflect various neurodegenerative and vascular-associated biological processes. The data obtained are comparative in nature and require further validation before potential clinical application.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Biomarkers/metabolism
*Signal Transduction
*Alzheimer Disease/metabolism/diagnosis
Dementia, Vascular/metabolism/diagnosis
*Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/metabolism
*Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnosis/metabolism
RevDate: 2026-01-13
CmpDate: 2026-01-10
Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Chemical Composition Analysis of In Vitro Huperzia serrata Thallus and Wild Huperzia serrata.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 31(1):.
Huperzine A is a preferred treatment option for Alzheimer's disease. Huperzia serrata (Thunb. ex Murray) Trev. (H. serrata) has garnered significant attention for its ability to produce Huperzine A (HupA). However, natural populations of wild H. serrata (WH) are rapidly declining. Fortunately, our group obtained two types of H. serrata thalli (OT and ST) capable of stably producing Huperzine A, which have the potential to serve as an alternative resource to WH. To evaluate the feasibility of this strategy, we conducted a comprehensive assessment of both WH and H. serrata thallus. The results indicated that compared to WH, ST and OT exhibited stronger anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, with lower cytotoxicity. Notably, ST demonstrated a strong radical scavenging activity, reaching 93.23% (DPPH at 0.2 μg/mL) and 99.87% (ABTS at 4 μg/mL), and reduced nitrite production from 10.29 μM to 6.51 μM at 50 µg/mL. GC-MS and widely targeted metabolomics analyses revealed that the higher antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities for ST and OT were due to higher concentrations of phenolic acids and flavonoids compared to WH. In addition, the HupA content in ST reached 36.56% of that found in WH. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that the flavonoid, phenylalanine, and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathways may be involved in regulating the antioxidant activity. P-coumaroyl quinic acid and caffeoyl quinic acid are the crucial metabolites for antioxidant activity. These findings suggested that the H. serrata thallus could serve as a sustainable alternative to WH.
Additional Links: PMID-41515488
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41515488,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, Y and Li, X and Dai, L and Cheng, M and Zhao, L and Shen, Y and Xie, J and Luo, X},
title = {Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Chemical Composition Analysis of In Vitro Huperzia serrata Thallus and Wild Huperzia serrata.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {31},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41515488},
issn = {1420-3049},
support = {20232ACB2050009//Natural Science Foundation of Jiangxi Province, China/ ; 32060074//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 20204BCJ22024//Major Academic and Technical Leader Training Project of Jiangxi Province/ ; },
mesh = {*Antioxidants/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Huperzia/chemistry ; Animals ; *Plant Extracts/chemistry/pharmacology ; Mice ; Sesquiterpenes/pharmacology/chemistry ; Alkaloids/pharmacology/chemistry ; RAW 264.7 Cells ; },
abstract = {Huperzine A is a preferred treatment option for Alzheimer's disease. Huperzia serrata (Thunb. ex Murray) Trev. (H. serrata) has garnered significant attention for its ability to produce Huperzine A (HupA). However, natural populations of wild H. serrata (WH) are rapidly declining. Fortunately, our group obtained two types of H. serrata thalli (OT and ST) capable of stably producing Huperzine A, which have the potential to serve as an alternative resource to WH. To evaluate the feasibility of this strategy, we conducted a comprehensive assessment of both WH and H. serrata thallus. The results indicated that compared to WH, ST and OT exhibited stronger anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, with lower cytotoxicity. Notably, ST demonstrated a strong radical scavenging activity, reaching 93.23% (DPPH at 0.2 μg/mL) and 99.87% (ABTS at 4 μg/mL), and reduced nitrite production from 10.29 μM to 6.51 μM at 50 µg/mL. GC-MS and widely targeted metabolomics analyses revealed that the higher antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities for ST and OT were due to higher concentrations of phenolic acids and flavonoids compared to WH. In addition, the HupA content in ST reached 36.56% of that found in WH. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that the flavonoid, phenylalanine, and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathways may be involved in regulating the antioxidant activity. P-coumaroyl quinic acid and caffeoyl quinic acid are the crucial metabolites for antioxidant activity. These findings suggested that the H. serrata thallus could serve as a sustainable alternative to WH.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Antioxidants/pharmacology/chemistry
*Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Huperzia/chemistry
Animals
*Plant Extracts/chemistry/pharmacology
Mice
Sesquiterpenes/pharmacology/chemistry
Alkaloids/pharmacology/chemistry
RAW 264.7 Cells
RevDate: 2026-01-10
Santonin Attenuates Alzheimer's-Like Pathology via Multitarget Modulation of the NLRP3 Inflammasome, BDNF Signaling, and Amyloidogenic Pathways: An Integrated Experimental and Computational Study.
ACS chemical neuroscience [Epub ahead of print].
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder and the predominant cause of dementia, characterized by amyloid β (Aβ) plaques and tau tangles that disrupt neurons in memory-related brain regions. This study explores the therapeutic potential of santonin using integrated in silico, in vitro, and in vivo approaches. Molecular docking identified santonin as a promising acetylcholinesterase, NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) ligand with significant binding affinities and supportive interaction scores supported by molecular dynamics simulations with significant multitarget therapeutic relevance. In vitro assays demonstrated that santonin has measurable inhibition of cholinesterase enzymes, showing significant effects on butyrylcholinesterase and acetylcholinesterase enzymes. Behavioral analysis revealed that santonin produced dose-dependent improvements in memory and exploratory behaviors, indicating significant neuroprotective effects against streptozotocin (STZ)-induced impairments. Histological analysis showed that santonin preserved neuronal architecture, enhanced neuronal density, and reduced Aβ deposition in STZ-treated brains using hematoxylin and eosin, Congo red, and Nissl analysis. These effects were evident in the cortical and hippocampal regions. Santonin exhibited strong antioxidant effects, mitigating induced enzyme depletion and oxidative marker elevation. Santonin effectively mitigated STZ-induced Aβ buildup and provided protective effects. Santonin modulated marker expression in STZ-treated brains by reducing the amyloid precursor protein, Tau, toll-like receptor 4, NLRP3, discs large MAGUK scaffold protein 4, and BDNF. Santonin reduces neuroinflammation and neurotrophic signaling in the early stages of AD, which suggests that it may be used as a treatment. However, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
Additional Links: PMID-41514478
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41514478,
year = {2026},
author = {Noman, M and Qadir, H and Ahmed, S and Rehman, NU and Shah, FA and Riaz, M and Ahmad, N and Ul-Haq, Z and Irshad, N},
title = {Santonin Attenuates Alzheimer's-Like Pathology via Multitarget Modulation of the NLRP3 Inflammasome, BDNF Signaling, and Amyloidogenic Pathways: An Integrated Experimental and Computational Study.},
journal = {ACS chemical neuroscience},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acschemneuro.5c00957},
pmid = {41514478},
issn = {1948-7193},
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder and the predominant cause of dementia, characterized by amyloid β (Aβ) plaques and tau tangles that disrupt neurons in memory-related brain regions. This study explores the therapeutic potential of santonin using integrated in silico, in vitro, and in vivo approaches. Molecular docking identified santonin as a promising acetylcholinesterase, NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) ligand with significant binding affinities and supportive interaction scores supported by molecular dynamics simulations with significant multitarget therapeutic relevance. In vitro assays demonstrated that santonin has measurable inhibition of cholinesterase enzymes, showing significant effects on butyrylcholinesterase and acetylcholinesterase enzymes. Behavioral analysis revealed that santonin produced dose-dependent improvements in memory and exploratory behaviors, indicating significant neuroprotective effects against streptozotocin (STZ)-induced impairments. Histological analysis showed that santonin preserved neuronal architecture, enhanced neuronal density, and reduced Aβ deposition in STZ-treated brains using hematoxylin and eosin, Congo red, and Nissl analysis. These effects were evident in the cortical and hippocampal regions. Santonin exhibited strong antioxidant effects, mitigating induced enzyme depletion and oxidative marker elevation. Santonin effectively mitigated STZ-induced Aβ buildup and provided protective effects. Santonin modulated marker expression in STZ-treated brains by reducing the amyloid precursor protein, Tau, toll-like receptor 4, NLRP3, discs large MAGUK scaffold protein 4, and BDNF. Santonin reduces neuroinflammation and neurotrophic signaling in the early stages of AD, which suggests that it may be used as a treatment. However, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-10
Lecanemab treatment for mild alzheimer's disease with high risk of cerebral hemorrhage: a case report.
BMC neurology pii:10.1186/s12883-025-04581-y [Epub ahead of print].
BACKGROUND: Lecanemab has been approved for the treatment of mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild AD dementia based on the efficacy in slowing cognitive decline and preliminary safety data from the phase Ⅲ Clarity AD trial. However, this trial excluded patients with high risk of cerebral hemorrhage, such as individuals with intracranial aneurysms or > 4 microhemorrhages.
CASE PRESENTATION: A 70-year-old male with mild AD, intracranial aneurysm, microhemorrhages, and APOE ε3/ε4 genotype received lecanemab after multidisciplinary evaluation and informed consent. Over six months of intensive monitoring, cognitive function stabilized with no deterioration, daily activities were preserved, microhemorrhages remained stable (with one new small lesion noted at 3 months), and no aneurysm rupture or severe adverse events (including amyloid-related imaging abnormalities) occurred.
CONCLUSIONS: This case suggests that, despite hemorrhage risks, lecanemab may have a manageable risk-benefit profile in selected real-world AD patients under intensive monitoring and multidisciplinary care, with its application beyond clinical trial criteria requiring more nuanced and individualized consideration.
Additional Links: PMID-41514416
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41514416,
year = {2026},
author = {Tian, Q and Liu, M and Zhong, F and Liu, X and Lü, Y},
title = {Lecanemab treatment for mild alzheimer's disease with high risk of cerebral hemorrhage: a case report.},
journal = {BMC neurology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12883-025-04581-y},
pmid = {41514416},
issn = {1471-2377},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Lecanemab has been approved for the treatment of mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild AD dementia based on the efficacy in slowing cognitive decline and preliminary safety data from the phase Ⅲ Clarity AD trial. However, this trial excluded patients with high risk of cerebral hemorrhage, such as individuals with intracranial aneurysms or > 4 microhemorrhages.
CASE PRESENTATION: A 70-year-old male with mild AD, intracranial aneurysm, microhemorrhages, and APOE ε3/ε4 genotype received lecanemab after multidisciplinary evaluation and informed consent. Over six months of intensive monitoring, cognitive function stabilized with no deterioration, daily activities were preserved, microhemorrhages remained stable (with one new small lesion noted at 3 months), and no aneurysm rupture or severe adverse events (including amyloid-related imaging abnormalities) occurred.
CONCLUSIONS: This case suggests that, despite hemorrhage risks, lecanemab may have a manageable risk-benefit profile in selected real-world AD patients under intensive monitoring and multidisciplinary care, with its application beyond clinical trial criteria requiring more nuanced and individualized consideration.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-12
CmpDate: 2026-01-09
Amyloid-β and Tau in Alzheimer's disease: pathogenesis, mechanisms, and interplay.
Cell death & disease, 17(1):21.
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease and the most prevalent type of dementia characterized by pathological deposition of amyloid-β plaques/deposits and tau tangles within the brain parenchyma. This progressive ailment is featured by irreversible cognitive impairment and memory loss, often misdiagnosed as the consequence of old age in elderlies. Pathologically, synaptic dysfunction occurs at the early stages and then progresses into neurodegeneration with neuronal cell death in later stages. In this review, we aimed to critically discuss and highlight recent advances in the pathological footprints of amyloid-β and tau in AD. Specifically, we focused our attention on the interplay and synergistic effects of amyloid-β and tau in the pathogenesis of AD. We hope that our paper will provide new insights and perspectives on these pathological features of AD and spark new ideas and directions in AD research and treatment.
Additional Links: PMID-41513640
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41513640,
year = {2026},
author = {Abdulkhaliq, AA and Kim, B and Almoghrabi, YM and Khan, J and Ajoolabady, A and Ren, J and Bahijri, S and Tuomilehto, J and Borai, A and Pratico, D},
title = {Amyloid-β and Tau in Alzheimer's disease: pathogenesis, mechanisms, and interplay.},
journal = {Cell death & disease},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {21},
pmid = {41513640},
issn = {2041-4889},
mesh = {Humans ; *Alzheimer Disease/metabolism/pathology ; *tau Proteins/metabolism ; *Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism ; Animals ; Brain/metabolism/pathology ; },
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease and the most prevalent type of dementia characterized by pathological deposition of amyloid-β plaques/deposits and tau tangles within the brain parenchyma. This progressive ailment is featured by irreversible cognitive impairment and memory loss, often misdiagnosed as the consequence of old age in elderlies. Pathologically, synaptic dysfunction occurs at the early stages and then progresses into neurodegeneration with neuronal cell death in later stages. In this review, we aimed to critically discuss and highlight recent advances in the pathological footprints of amyloid-β and tau in AD. Specifically, we focused our attention on the interplay and synergistic effects of amyloid-β and tau in the pathogenesis of AD. We hope that our paper will provide new insights and perspectives on these pathological features of AD and spark new ideas and directions in AD research and treatment.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Alzheimer Disease/metabolism/pathology
*tau Proteins/metabolism
*Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism
Animals
Brain/metabolism/pathology
RevDate: 2026-01-10
Discovery of multitargeting single agents as a novel route to the potential treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Bioorganic & medicinal chemistry letters, 133:130536 pii:S0960-894X(26)00003-X [Epub ahead of print].
There are no cures for neurodegenerative diseases. The biggest hurdle to treating these disorders is that their clinical manifestation is rooted in multiple physiological processes. Therefore, efficacious pharmaceutical options will likely require two or more agents with different mechanisms of action. However, drug combinations have significant drawbacks, including overlapping toxicities and unique pharmacokinetic properties, particularly the rate and extent of central nervous system (CNS) penetration. A single agent with multiple mechanisms of action could overcome these drawbacks. We have recently discovered first-in-class novel single agents (compounds 1 and 2) that mildly inhibit clinically important kinases and subtly favor microtubule stability at concentrations that show no evidence of neuronal toxicity in primary neurons, while maintaining their ability to penetrate the CNS in vivo. It is important to note that the effects of these analogs are mild and are predicated on avoiding neurotoxicity. These multitargeting single agents provide a new structural modality with the potential to influence treatments for Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease and serve as lead compounds for further optimization.
Additional Links: PMID-41513181
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@article {pmid41513181,
year = {2026},
author = {Vyas, J and Jamenis, AS and Kaku, K and Shah, Y and Miner, KM and Bhatia, TN and Kim, RE and Bai, R and Hamel, E and Leak, RK and Gangjee, A},
title = {Discovery of multitargeting single agents as a novel route to the potential treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.},
journal = {Bioorganic & medicinal chemistry letters},
volume = {133},
number = {},
pages = {130536},
doi = {10.1016/j.bmcl.2026.130536},
pmid = {41513181},
issn = {1464-3405},
abstract = {There are no cures for neurodegenerative diseases. The biggest hurdle to treating these disorders is that their clinical manifestation is rooted in multiple physiological processes. Therefore, efficacious pharmaceutical options will likely require two or more agents with different mechanisms of action. However, drug combinations have significant drawbacks, including overlapping toxicities and unique pharmacokinetic properties, particularly the rate and extent of central nervous system (CNS) penetration. A single agent with multiple mechanisms of action could overcome these drawbacks. We have recently discovered first-in-class novel single agents (compounds 1 and 2) that mildly inhibit clinically important kinases and subtly favor microtubule stability at concentrations that show no evidence of neuronal toxicity in primary neurons, while maintaining their ability to penetrate the CNS in vivo. It is important to note that the effects of these analogs are mild and are predicated on avoiding neurotoxicity. These multitargeting single agents provide a new structural modality with the potential to influence treatments for Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease and serve as lead compounds for further optimization.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-09
Taurine Mitigates Spironolactone-Induced Hyperkalemia and Cognitive Dysfunction: A Biochemical and Histological Study in a Rat Model.
Applied biochemistry and biotechnology pii:10.1007/s12010-025-05513-9 [Epub ahead of print].
Spironolactone (SPR), a widely used potassium-sparing diuretic, frequently causes hyperkalemia, leading to significant cardiovascular and neurological complications. Taurine, a semi-essential amino acid with known antioxidant and neuroprotective effects, was hypothesized to mitigate these adverse effects. This study investigated taurine's efficacy against SPR-induced hyperkalemia and associated cognitive dysfunction in a rat model. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated for four weeks with SPR, SPR + galantamine (an AChE inhibitor widely used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease), or SPR + varying concentrations of taurine, followed by assessment of cognitive, biochemical, and histopathological alterations. SPR administration significantly increased serum potassium levels (~7.5 mEq/L), induced cognitive deficits, disrupted neurotransmitter balance (e.g., altered GABA and glutamate levels), and caused reactive astrocytic swelling in key brain regions. Taurine demonstrated a dose-dependent protective effect against SPR-induced neurotoxicity by mitigating hyperkalemia and associated cognitive impairments. Biochemically, taurine restored neurotransmitter balance by increasing GABA and reducing the excitotoxic glutamate levels. Histological analysis further confirmed taurine's neuroprotective effects, showing preserved cortical structures and reduced astrogliosis, especially at the highest concentration (5%). Our correlation analysis reveals complex regulatory mechanisms underlying neurotransmitter balance in the brain. These findings suggest taurine as a promising therapeutic agent for alleviating SPR-induced neurological side effects. Further studies are needed to explore taurine's long-term effects and clinical applications in managing hyperkalemia-related cognitive dysfunctions.
Additional Links: PMID-41511604
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@article {pmid41511604,
year = {2026},
author = {Babaker, MA and Alazabi, NI and Yousef, EM and Haredy, SA and Algohary, AM and Mansour, DF and Ahmed-Farid, OA},
title = {Taurine Mitigates Spironolactone-Induced Hyperkalemia and Cognitive Dysfunction: A Biochemical and Histological Study in a Rat Model.},
journal = {Applied biochemistry and biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s12010-025-05513-9},
pmid = {41511604},
issn = {1559-0291},
abstract = {Spironolactone (SPR), a widely used potassium-sparing diuretic, frequently causes hyperkalemia, leading to significant cardiovascular and neurological complications. Taurine, a semi-essential amino acid with known antioxidant and neuroprotective effects, was hypothesized to mitigate these adverse effects. This study investigated taurine's efficacy against SPR-induced hyperkalemia and associated cognitive dysfunction in a rat model. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated for four weeks with SPR, SPR + galantamine (an AChE inhibitor widely used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease), or SPR + varying concentrations of taurine, followed by assessment of cognitive, biochemical, and histopathological alterations. SPR administration significantly increased serum potassium levels (~7.5 mEq/L), induced cognitive deficits, disrupted neurotransmitter balance (e.g., altered GABA and glutamate levels), and caused reactive astrocytic swelling in key brain regions. Taurine demonstrated a dose-dependent protective effect against SPR-induced neurotoxicity by mitigating hyperkalemia and associated cognitive impairments. Biochemically, taurine restored neurotransmitter balance by increasing GABA and reducing the excitotoxic glutamate levels. Histological analysis further confirmed taurine's neuroprotective effects, showing preserved cortical structures and reduced astrogliosis, especially at the highest concentration (5%). Our correlation analysis reveals complex regulatory mechanisms underlying neurotransmitter balance in the brain. These findings suggest taurine as a promising therapeutic agent for alleviating SPR-induced neurological side effects. Further studies are needed to explore taurine's long-term effects and clinical applications in managing hyperkalemia-related cognitive dysfunctions.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-13
CmpDate: 2026-01-09
Low-Density Lipoproteins Induce a Pro-Inflammatory, Chemotactic Mox-like Phenotype in THP-1-Derived Human Macrophages.
Cells, 15(1):.
Murine macrophages exposed to oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) polarize into a distinct Mox phenotype characterized by impaired phagocytic and chemotactic function. Although implicated in atherosclerosis, this phenotype has not been confirmed in human macrophages. Drawing parallels to human tumor-associated macrophages, and in contrast to the murine cell response, we hypothesize that LDL/oxLDL induces a hybrid Mox-like state in human macrophages, marked by the simultaneous secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and anti-inflammatory factors, potentially exacerbating vascular inflammation and atherogenesis. To test this, THP-1 human monocytes were differentiated into resting macrophages, then polarized into M1-like and M2-like phenotypes, followed by treatment with native LDL, oxLDL, IL-6, or their combinations. ELISA results showed that oxLDL or LDL with IL-6 polarized resting and M1-like macrophages into a Mox-like phenotype that secreted TNF-α and TGF-β1 at levels comparable to M1- and M2-like cells, respectively. The pro-inflammatory nature of Mox-like macrophages was supported by increased THP-1 adhesion to vascular endothelial cells exposed to the macrophage-conditioned media. In microfluidic assays, LUVA human mast cells migrated toward media from Mox-like macrophages, indicating enhanced chemotaxis. In summary, the pro-inflammatory Mox-like state is triggered in human macrophages by oxLDL or LDL combined with IL-6, a key regulator of the inflammatory acute-phase response. Unlike in murine cells, this state is marked by high chemotactic activity driven by TGF-β1 secretion, which promotes mast cell recruitment and contributes to atherosclerotic plaque development and Alzheimer's disease.
Additional Links: PMID-41511339
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@article {pmid41511339,
year = {2025},
author = {Yu, H and Josi, RR and Khanna, A and Khismatullin, DB},
title = {Low-Density Lipoproteins Induce a Pro-Inflammatory, Chemotactic Mox-like Phenotype in THP-1-Derived Human Macrophages.},
journal = {Cells},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41511339},
issn = {2073-4409},
support = {R01 HL127092/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; 1R01HL127092-01A1/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Lipoproteins, LDL/pharmacology ; *Macrophages/metabolism/drug effects ; *Chemotaxis/drug effects ; Phenotype ; THP-1 Cells ; *Inflammation/pathology/metabolism ; Mast Cells/metabolism/drug effects ; Interleukin-6/metabolism ; Cytokines/metabolism ; Cell Differentiation/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Murine macrophages exposed to oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) polarize into a distinct Mox phenotype characterized by impaired phagocytic and chemotactic function. Although implicated in atherosclerosis, this phenotype has not been confirmed in human macrophages. Drawing parallels to human tumor-associated macrophages, and in contrast to the murine cell response, we hypothesize that LDL/oxLDL induces a hybrid Mox-like state in human macrophages, marked by the simultaneous secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and anti-inflammatory factors, potentially exacerbating vascular inflammation and atherogenesis. To test this, THP-1 human monocytes were differentiated into resting macrophages, then polarized into M1-like and M2-like phenotypes, followed by treatment with native LDL, oxLDL, IL-6, or their combinations. ELISA results showed that oxLDL or LDL with IL-6 polarized resting and M1-like macrophages into a Mox-like phenotype that secreted TNF-α and TGF-β1 at levels comparable to M1- and M2-like cells, respectively. The pro-inflammatory nature of Mox-like macrophages was supported by increased THP-1 adhesion to vascular endothelial cells exposed to the macrophage-conditioned media. In microfluidic assays, LUVA human mast cells migrated toward media from Mox-like macrophages, indicating enhanced chemotaxis. In summary, the pro-inflammatory Mox-like state is triggered in human macrophages by oxLDL or LDL combined with IL-6, a key regulator of the inflammatory acute-phase response. Unlike in murine cells, this state is marked by high chemotactic activity driven by TGF-β1 secretion, which promotes mast cell recruitment and contributes to atherosclerotic plaque development and Alzheimer's disease.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Lipoproteins, LDL/pharmacology
*Macrophages/metabolism/drug effects
*Chemotaxis/drug effects
Phenotype
THP-1 Cells
*Inflammation/pathology/metabolism
Mast Cells/metabolism/drug effects
Interleukin-6/metabolism
Cytokines/metabolism
Cell Differentiation/drug effects
RevDate: 2026-01-12
CmpDate: 2026-01-09
A Systematic Review to Evaluate the Effect of Neflamapimod on Cognitive Function and Progression of Dementia.
Neurology India, 74(1):12-19.
Treatment options for dementia mainly comprise of symptomatic treatment, as no disease-modifying therapy currently exists that directly reduces the pathology. This systematic review assessed the effectiveness of neflamapimod (VX-745), a p38α kinase inhibitor, as a therapeutic agent for treating dementia, including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Lewy Body Dementia (LBD). The systematic review evaluated the therapeutic effect of neflamapimod on dementia. Five electronic databases were included in the systematic review: PubMed, Embase, ProQuest, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, which were searched until May 5, 2024. Two independent reviewers conducted title and abstract screening, followed by full-text review and data extraction, with disagreements resolved by a third reviewer. The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed using the ROB 2.0 tool. PROSPERO Registration ID: CRD42024542377. The review identified clinical results, biomarker effects, and mechanistic insights from two key trials. Due to the inclusion of only two eligible studies with varying methodologies and outcome measures, a meta-analysis could not be performed. While the primary cognitive outcomes, such as "neuropsychological test battery (NTB)" and "Hopkins Verbal Learning Test-Revised (HVLT-R)" were not statistically different, episodic memory, executive function, attention, gait dysfunction, and motor issues showed improvements, especially in patients with elevated plasma tau181, a marker for AD pathology. Biomarker analysis also indicated a statistically significant reduction in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tau and phosphorylated tau biomarkers, which are closely related to neuroinflammation and synaptic impairment in dementia. The findings of the current review suggested that while the cognitive effects of neflamapimod remain uncertain, its ability to influence disease-specific biomarkers makes it a potential drug to be used in dementia. This review connects biological and clinical outcomes, paving the way for future advancements in dementia treatment strategies.
Additional Links: PMID-41510854
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid41510854,
year = {2026},
author = {Tyagi, S and Murali, N and Singh, SK and Babtiwale, SR and Padhi, BK and Lakshmi, NRA and Gandhi, AP},
title = {A Systematic Review to Evaluate the Effect of Neflamapimod on Cognitive Function and Progression of Dementia.},
journal = {Neurology India},
volume = {74},
number = {1},
pages = {12-19},
doi = {10.4103/neurol-india.Neurol-India-D-25-00227},
pmid = {41510854},
issn = {1998-4022},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cognition/drug effects ; Disease Progression ; *Dementia/drug therapy ; *Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy ; *Lewy Body Disease/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {Treatment options for dementia mainly comprise of symptomatic treatment, as no disease-modifying therapy currently exists that directly reduces the pathology. This systematic review assessed the effectiveness of neflamapimod (VX-745), a p38α kinase inhibitor, as a therapeutic agent for treating dementia, including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Lewy Body Dementia (LBD). The systematic review evaluated the therapeutic effect of neflamapimod on dementia. Five electronic databases were included in the systematic review: PubMed, Embase, ProQuest, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, which were searched until May 5, 2024. Two independent reviewers conducted title and abstract screening, followed by full-text review and data extraction, with disagreements resolved by a third reviewer. The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed using the ROB 2.0 tool. PROSPERO Registration ID: CRD42024542377. The review identified clinical results, biomarker effects, and mechanistic insights from two key trials. Due to the inclusion of only two eligible studies with varying methodologies and outcome measures, a meta-analysis could not be performed. While the primary cognitive outcomes, such as "neuropsychological test battery (NTB)" and "Hopkins Verbal Learning Test-Revised (HVLT-R)" were not statistically different, episodic memory, executive function, attention, gait dysfunction, and motor issues showed improvements, especially in patients with elevated plasma tau181, a marker for AD pathology. Biomarker analysis also indicated a statistically significant reduction in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tau and phosphorylated tau biomarkers, which are closely related to neuroinflammation and synaptic impairment in dementia. The findings of the current review suggested that while the cognitive effects of neflamapimod remain uncertain, its ability to influence disease-specific biomarkers makes it a potential drug to be used in dementia. This review connects biological and clinical outcomes, paving the way for future advancements in dementia treatment strategies.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Cognition/drug effects
Disease Progression
*Dementia/drug therapy
*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy
*Lewy Body Disease/drug therapy
RevDate: 2026-01-09
Therapeutic Implications of Nutraceutical Nanotechnology for the Treatment of Chronic Diseases.
Current drug metabolism pii:CDM-EPUB-152343 [Epub ahead of print].
Nanotechnology possesses therapeutic value in managing chronic disease, but it has limitations like as solubility, stability, and targeted delivery in clinical applications. The review explores how nanotechnology-based delivery systems improve the efficacy, bioavailability, and targeted actions of nutraceutical compounds. Health benefits, sustainable nanotechnology, market size, and growth forecasts have shown positive results in this industry over the last two decades. The disease-like respiratory, diabetes, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and breast cancer top focused sectors for this nutraceuticals sector. Most literature has been collected from 2020-2025 using PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. The different criteria included preclinical, clinical, and nanotechnology-integrated nutraceutical studies. The liposomes, dendrimers, nanoemulsions, and polymeric nanoparticles significantly enhance the stability and delivery of key bioactive as example like curcumin, resveratrol, and omega-3. Early-stage clinical trials show promise for diseases like Alzheimer's, diabetes, and cancer. Nanotechnology is the reshaping of nutraceutical therapy, through regulatory, toxicology, and large-scale validation gaps persist. Future work must focus on green synthesis, long-term safety, and harmonized approval pathways. Despite this, the industry still needs collaboration between academic researchers, scientists, and regulatory bodies to start the next generation of clinical trials and treatments that can reduce the risk of diseases and death in the future.
Additional Links: PMID-41510732
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid41510732,
year = {2026},
author = {Adhikari, B and Venkatesh, DN and Puri, V and Sharma, A},
title = {Therapeutic Implications of Nutraceutical Nanotechnology for the Treatment of Chronic Diseases.},
journal = {Current drug metabolism},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.2174/0113892002415344251122122358},
pmid = {41510732},
issn = {1875-5453},
abstract = {Nanotechnology possesses therapeutic value in managing chronic disease, but it has limitations like as solubility, stability, and targeted delivery in clinical applications. The review explores how nanotechnology-based delivery systems improve the efficacy, bioavailability, and targeted actions of nutraceutical compounds. Health benefits, sustainable nanotechnology, market size, and growth forecasts have shown positive results in this industry over the last two decades. The disease-like respiratory, diabetes, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and breast cancer top focused sectors for this nutraceuticals sector. Most literature has been collected from 2020-2025 using PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. The different criteria included preclinical, clinical, and nanotechnology-integrated nutraceutical studies. The liposomes, dendrimers, nanoemulsions, and polymeric nanoparticles significantly enhance the stability and delivery of key bioactive as example like curcumin, resveratrol, and omega-3. Early-stage clinical trials show promise for diseases like Alzheimer's, diabetes, and cancer. Nanotechnology is the reshaping of nutraceutical therapy, through regulatory, toxicology, and large-scale validation gaps persist. Future work must focus on green synthesis, long-term safety, and harmonized approval pathways. Despite this, the industry still needs collaboration between academic researchers, scientists, and regulatory bodies to start the next generation of clinical trials and treatments that can reduce the risk of diseases and death in the future.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-09
New Drug Therapies Against Targeting Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Comprehensive Review.
Central nervous system agents in medicinal chemistry pii:CNSAMC-EPUB-152322 [Epub ahead of print].
Neurodegenerative diseases encompass well-characterized behavioral, cognitive, and movement disorders that affect older people, impacting all facets of daily life. In Alzheimer's disease, specific antibodies targeting the β-amyloid protein (aducanumab, lecanemab, and others) are gaining special interest due to the approval of the first particular drugs against this disease. In Parkinson's disease, most drugs were approved several decades ago; however, new Phase II clinical trials point to monoclonal antibodies as a promising approach, and the report of alkaloids also suggests various therapeutic targets against this disease. Pick's disease has a low prevalence; currently, no drugs are approved by government agencies. However, thanks to molecular tools, it has been possible to elucidate therapeutic targets implicated in the appearance of the disease. α-synuclein is the main therapeutic target in Lewy body disease; most of the reported molecules are in clinical Phases I and II. Additionally, drug repositioning may emerge as a viable option in the search for effective treatments against this disease. In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, the appearance of newly approved drugs such as tofersen and edaravone, and some others in clinical Phase II (bosutinib), opens a new era in the understanding and treatment of this condition. Altered emotions and progressive damage in some brain regions characterize schizophrenia and vascular dementia. Combinations of tricyclic drugs are a trend that aims to increase the cognitive performance of patients with schizophrenia. In vascular dementia, numerous in vivo trials with molecules of different natures (flavonoids and lactones) have yielded positive results, delaying the progression of the disease. This review examines recent reports on molecules evaluated in vivo and in vitro models of the primary neurodegenerative diseases.
Additional Links: PMID-41510728
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41510728,
year = {2026},
author = {González-Jiménez, KA and Herrera-Mayorga, EV and Paredes Sánchez, FA and Niño-García, N and Torres-Castillo, JA and Martínez-Padrón, HY and Sánchez-Sánchez, M},
title = {New Drug Therapies Against Targeting Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Comprehensive Review.},
journal = {Central nervous system agents in medicinal chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.2174/0118715249397580251117044621},
pmid = {41510728},
issn = {1875-6166},
abstract = {Neurodegenerative diseases encompass well-characterized behavioral, cognitive, and movement disorders that affect older people, impacting all facets of daily life. In Alzheimer's disease, specific antibodies targeting the β-amyloid protein (aducanumab, lecanemab, and others) are gaining special interest due to the approval of the first particular drugs against this disease. In Parkinson's disease, most drugs were approved several decades ago; however, new Phase II clinical trials point to monoclonal antibodies as a promising approach, and the report of alkaloids also suggests various therapeutic targets against this disease. Pick's disease has a low prevalence; currently, no drugs are approved by government agencies. However, thanks to molecular tools, it has been possible to elucidate therapeutic targets implicated in the appearance of the disease. α-synuclein is the main therapeutic target in Lewy body disease; most of the reported molecules are in clinical Phases I and II. Additionally, drug repositioning may emerge as a viable option in the search for effective treatments against this disease. In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, the appearance of newly approved drugs such as tofersen and edaravone, and some others in clinical Phase II (bosutinib), opens a new era in the understanding and treatment of this condition. Altered emotions and progressive damage in some brain regions characterize schizophrenia and vascular dementia. Combinations of tricyclic drugs are a trend that aims to increase the cognitive performance of patients with schizophrenia. In vascular dementia, numerous in vivo trials with molecules of different natures (flavonoids and lactones) have yielded positive results, delaying the progression of the disease. This review examines recent reports on molecules evaluated in vivo and in vitro models of the primary neurodegenerative diseases.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-09
Innovative Approaches to Alzheimer's Treatment: Utilizing Tacrine Hybrids to Inhibit Amyloid Beta Aggregation as a Strategic Focus.
Mini reviews in medicinal chemistry pii:MRMC-EPUB-152369 [Epub ahead of print].
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex and progressive brain disorder marked by memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes. One of its defining features is the build-up of amyloid plaques, clumps of β-amyloid (Aβ) peptides, in the brain, along with the formation of neurofibrillary tangles. These Aβ peptides are generated when the amyloid precursor protein (APP) is cleaved by enzymes, with β-secretase (BACE1) playing a key role in the first step of this process. Because BACE1 starts the cascade that leads to harmful Aβ build-up, it has become an important target in the search for effective Alzheimer's treatments. As Aβ accumulates in neurons, it disrupts communication between brain cells and triggers oxidative stress, which worsens damage and accelerates disease progression. This is often exacerbated by imbalances in metal ions, such as copper and iron. While tacrine, an early acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, has shown benefits in managing AD symptoms, its limitations have led researchers to explore improved versions. One promising direction is the development of tacrine-based hybrid molecules. By combining tacrine with other chemical groups that have anti-β-amyloid (Aβ) effects, antioxidant properties, and metal-chelating properties, scientists aim to create compounds that target multiple aspects of the disease simultaneously. This review examines the emerging potential of tacrine hybrids, particularly their capacity to inhibit BACE1 and prevent Aβ aggregation, providing new hope for more effective and disease-modifying therapies for Alzheimer's disease.
Additional Links: PMID-41510718
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@article {pmid41510718,
year = {2026},
author = {Prabakaran, A and Sivaperuman, A and Natarajan, R and Nagarajan, NC and Solomon, VR},
title = {Innovative Approaches to Alzheimer's Treatment: Utilizing Tacrine Hybrids to Inhibit Amyloid Beta Aggregation as a Strategic Focus.},
journal = {Mini reviews in medicinal chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.2174/0113895575422492251116190843},
pmid = {41510718},
issn = {1875-5607},
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex and progressive brain disorder marked by memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes. One of its defining features is the build-up of amyloid plaques, clumps of β-amyloid (Aβ) peptides, in the brain, along with the formation of neurofibrillary tangles. These Aβ peptides are generated when the amyloid precursor protein (APP) is cleaved by enzymes, with β-secretase (BACE1) playing a key role in the first step of this process. Because BACE1 starts the cascade that leads to harmful Aβ build-up, it has become an important target in the search for effective Alzheimer's treatments. As Aβ accumulates in neurons, it disrupts communication between brain cells and triggers oxidative stress, which worsens damage and accelerates disease progression. This is often exacerbated by imbalances in metal ions, such as copper and iron. While tacrine, an early acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, has shown benefits in managing AD symptoms, its limitations have led researchers to explore improved versions. One promising direction is the development of tacrine-based hybrid molecules. By combining tacrine with other chemical groups that have anti-β-amyloid (Aβ) effects, antioxidant properties, and metal-chelating properties, scientists aim to create compounds that target multiple aspects of the disease simultaneously. This review examines the emerging potential of tacrine hybrids, particularly their capacity to inhibit BACE1 and prevent Aβ aggregation, providing new hope for more effective and disease-modifying therapies for Alzheimer's disease.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-09
Indole Scaffolds in Neurological Therapeutics: Synthesis, Structure-Activity Relationships and Drug-Receptor Interactions.
Mini reviews in medicinal chemistry pii:MRMC-EPUB-152367 [Epub ahead of print].
INTRODUCTION: Indole is a privileged heterocyclic scaffold that plays a crucial role in medicinal chemistry due to its strong ability to bind to various biological receptors and interact with diverse molecular targets. Indole exhibits both biological and chemical significance. Its structural versatility allows for precise chemical modifications, making it an essential framework in drug discovery. This review discusses the structure-activity relationships, synthesis, and interactions of indole derivatives, particularly in relation to targets within the central nervous system.
METHODS: A detailed literature survey was conducted using databases such as Google Scholar, Elsevier, PubMed, ACS, PubChem, ScienceDirect, and RSC to understand the structural modifications of indole derivatives and their therapeutic potential. Both research and review articles related to indole- based compounds were thoroughly studied to prepare this review article.
RESULTS: There are over 40 FDA-approved drugs containing an indole nucleus used to treat various diseases, underscoring its potential in neurotherapeutics. This review highlights innovative synthetic strategies, including green chemistry approaches, that improve the drug-likeness and bioavailability of indole derivatives. Indole continues to be an indispensable scaffold in the development of novel therapeutics aimed at addressing the growing burden of neurological disorders.
DISCUSSION: This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the therapeutic potential of indole-based compounds for the treatment of neurological disorders. However, challenges like blood-brain barrier permeability and long-term safety must be addressed for clinical success. Nonetheless, this review will help in designing and developing newer indole-based molecules in the discovery of neurological drug development.
CONCLUSION: Due to its broad spectrum of biological activities and favorable pharmacokinetic properties, indole is an impressive scaffold for the treatment of various neurological disorders. Indole demonstrates remarkable therapeutic potential against a range of central nervous system-related conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, migraine, stroke, Parkinson's disease, prion disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Huntington's disease.
Additional Links: PMID-41510716
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41510716,
year = {2026},
author = {Bano, A and Khan, AA and Kushwaha, SP and -, A and Zaidi, SMH and Misbahul Hasan, S and Fatima, A},
title = {Indole Scaffolds in Neurological Therapeutics: Synthesis, Structure-Activity Relationships and Drug-Receptor Interactions.},
journal = {Mini reviews in medicinal chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.2174/0113895575415521251021091530},
pmid = {41510716},
issn = {1875-5607},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Indole is a privileged heterocyclic scaffold that plays a crucial role in medicinal chemistry due to its strong ability to bind to various biological receptors and interact with diverse molecular targets. Indole exhibits both biological and chemical significance. Its structural versatility allows for precise chemical modifications, making it an essential framework in drug discovery. This review discusses the structure-activity relationships, synthesis, and interactions of indole derivatives, particularly in relation to targets within the central nervous system.
METHODS: A detailed literature survey was conducted using databases such as Google Scholar, Elsevier, PubMed, ACS, PubChem, ScienceDirect, and RSC to understand the structural modifications of indole derivatives and their therapeutic potential. Both research and review articles related to indole- based compounds were thoroughly studied to prepare this review article.
RESULTS: There are over 40 FDA-approved drugs containing an indole nucleus used to treat various diseases, underscoring its potential in neurotherapeutics. This review highlights innovative synthetic strategies, including green chemistry approaches, that improve the drug-likeness and bioavailability of indole derivatives. Indole continues to be an indispensable scaffold in the development of novel therapeutics aimed at addressing the growing burden of neurological disorders.
DISCUSSION: This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the therapeutic potential of indole-based compounds for the treatment of neurological disorders. However, challenges like blood-brain barrier permeability and long-term safety must be addressed for clinical success. Nonetheless, this review will help in designing and developing newer indole-based molecules in the discovery of neurological drug development.
CONCLUSION: Due to its broad spectrum of biological activities and favorable pharmacokinetic properties, indole is an impressive scaffold for the treatment of various neurological disorders. Indole demonstrates remarkable therapeutic potential against a range of central nervous system-related conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, migraine, stroke, Parkinson's disease, prion disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Huntington's disease.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-09
Synthetic Disaggregators Enhance Central-Peripheral Amyloid-β Clearance in Alzheimer's Disease.
Advanced materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.) [Epub ahead of print].
Pathogenic amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation defines Alzheimer's disease (AD), directly inflicting neuronal damage and driving chronic neuroinflammation. While both central microglia and peripheral macrophages are critical for Aβ clearance, their functional impairment in AD inexorably leads to escalating Aβ burden and disease progression. We here report an in situ engineered synthetic Aβ disaggregator (SAD) delivered to macrophages via neuroprotective DHA-based lipid nanoparticles (DLNPs). This platform transcends current therapeutic limitations by not only potently dismantling neurotoxic Aβ aggregates but also by fundamentally reprogramming peripheral macrophages to enhance Aβ clearance. Specifically, our results demonstrate that DLNPs effectively reprogram peripheral macrophages to produce and secrete cerebral-penetrating SAD both in vitro and in vivo. The SAD can promote cerebral Aβ disaggregation, thereby inhibiting neuroinflammatory pathology progression. Moreover, the DLNPs efficiently reprogram the peripheral macrophages to enhance phagocytosis, further facilitating drainage of Aβ and reducing cerebral Aβ accumulation in mouse models. Collectively, these findings uncover a dual-action mechanism of SAD through the synergistic interplay of direct Aβ disaggregation and enhanced macrophage-mediated clearance. In sum, our findings establish that the central-peripheral targeting therapeutic strategy significantly reversed AD pathology, highlighting the therapeutic potential of mRNA-based in situ fusion protein in AD treatment.
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@article {pmid41510572,
year = {2026},
author = {Tang, C and Han, K and Wen, X and Zhang, J and Sun, W and Yue, X and Shi, L and Liu, Z and Zhao, J and Yan, C and Liu, M and Yao, Z and Kong, Z and Liu, Y and Fu, Z and Zhao, X and Yang, Z and Han, M and Chen, C and Xing, Z and Zhou, X and Yang, F and Zhang, Y and Jiang, X},
title = {Synthetic Disaggregators Enhance Central-Peripheral Amyloid-β Clearance in Alzheimer's Disease.},
journal = {Advanced materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e20002},
doi = {10.1002/adma.202520002},
pmid = {41510572},
issn = {1521-4095},
support = {2024YFA0918400//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 82350125//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82425056//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82173763//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82303810//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; ZR2022ZD18//Fundamental Research Funds of Shandong Province/ ; ZR2023QH224//Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province/ ; 2022M721967//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; 2024T170524//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; SYS202202//Shandong Provincial Laboratory Project/ ; NO.tsqnz20221165//Taishan Scholar Foundation of Shandong Province/ ; 2025CXPT177//Key R&D Program of Shandong Province/ ; 2025CXPT177//Key R&D Program of Shandong Province/ ; },
abstract = {Pathogenic amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation defines Alzheimer's disease (AD), directly inflicting neuronal damage and driving chronic neuroinflammation. While both central microglia and peripheral macrophages are critical for Aβ clearance, their functional impairment in AD inexorably leads to escalating Aβ burden and disease progression. We here report an in situ engineered synthetic Aβ disaggregator (SAD) delivered to macrophages via neuroprotective DHA-based lipid nanoparticles (DLNPs). This platform transcends current therapeutic limitations by not only potently dismantling neurotoxic Aβ aggregates but also by fundamentally reprogramming peripheral macrophages to enhance Aβ clearance. Specifically, our results demonstrate that DLNPs effectively reprogram peripheral macrophages to produce and secrete cerebral-penetrating SAD both in vitro and in vivo. The SAD can promote cerebral Aβ disaggregation, thereby inhibiting neuroinflammatory pathology progression. Moreover, the DLNPs efficiently reprogram the peripheral macrophages to enhance phagocytosis, further facilitating drainage of Aβ and reducing cerebral Aβ accumulation in mouse models. Collectively, these findings uncover a dual-action mechanism of SAD through the synergistic interplay of direct Aβ disaggregation and enhanced macrophage-mediated clearance. In sum, our findings establish that the central-peripheral targeting therapeutic strategy significantly reversed AD pathology, highlighting the therapeutic potential of mRNA-based in situ fusion protein in AD treatment.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-09
CmpDate: 2026-01-09
Treatment of type 2 diabetes among medicare beneficiaries with and without alzheimer's disease: A retrospective cohort study.
Journal of diabetes and metabolic disorders, 25(1):25.
PURPOSE: While Alzheimer's disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) commonly co-occur in older adults, little is known regarding whether and how the treatment of T2DM varies by AD status. This study aimed to compare and contrast T2DM treatment among individuals with and without AD.
METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using 20% Medicare Fee-for-Service claims data from 2016 to 2020. The primary outcome was initiation of any antidiabetic medication within one year of T2DM diagnosis, and we also examined initiation patterns across specific drug classes. We used multivariable logistic regression to estimate adjusted odds ratios for the association between AD and treatment initiation.
RESULTS: Among 388,359 beneficiaries newly diagnosed with T2DM, 9,584 had AD. Within one year, overall treatment initiation was lower for individuals with AD compared to those without. At initiation, individuals with AD were more likely to receive insulin and less likely to receive metformin, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, or glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. In adjusted models, AD was associated with lower odds of antidiabetic treatment initiation, and among those initiating treatment, lower odds of initiating newer agents such as GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors.
CONCLUSION: Beneficiaries with AD were less likely to initiate antidiabetic therapy, particularly newer agents. Future work could explore the basis for these differences.
Additional Links: PMID-41510365
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@article {pmid41510365,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Y and Alexander, GC and Mehta, HB},
title = {Treatment of type 2 diabetes among medicare beneficiaries with and without alzheimer's disease: A retrospective cohort study.},
journal = {Journal of diabetes and metabolic disorders},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {25},
pmid = {41510365},
issn = {2251-6581},
abstract = {PURPOSE: While Alzheimer's disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) commonly co-occur in older adults, little is known regarding whether and how the treatment of T2DM varies by AD status. This study aimed to compare and contrast T2DM treatment among individuals with and without AD.
METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using 20% Medicare Fee-for-Service claims data from 2016 to 2020. The primary outcome was initiation of any antidiabetic medication within one year of T2DM diagnosis, and we also examined initiation patterns across specific drug classes. We used multivariable logistic regression to estimate adjusted odds ratios for the association between AD and treatment initiation.
RESULTS: Among 388,359 beneficiaries newly diagnosed with T2DM, 9,584 had AD. Within one year, overall treatment initiation was lower for individuals with AD compared to those without. At initiation, individuals with AD were more likely to receive insulin and less likely to receive metformin, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, or glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. In adjusted models, AD was associated with lower odds of antidiabetic treatment initiation, and among those initiating treatment, lower odds of initiating newer agents such as GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors.
CONCLUSION: Beneficiaries with AD were less likely to initiate antidiabetic therapy, particularly newer agents. Future work could explore the basis for these differences.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-09
CmpDate: 2026-01-09
CauReL: Dynamic Counterfactual Learning for Precision Drug Repurposing in Alzheimer's Disease.
Research square pii:rs.3.rs-8206648.
Alzheimer's disease has few effective therapies, and decades of amyloid- and tau-focused trials have delivered only modest benefit with substantial toxicity. Drug repurposing using real-world data offers a faster and lower-risk route to new treatments, yet current approaches typically average effects across populations, model disease onset and progression separately, and provide little insight into which patients are most likely to benefit. We present CauReL, a dynamic counterfactual representation learning framework that enables transparent, patient specific estimation of treatment effects from large-scale electronic health records for precision drug repurposing in AD. CauReL first learns balanced latent representations of treated and untreated patients using Integral Probability Metric regularization, then jointly predicts two clinically linked outcomes, incident AD and time from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to AD, to generate paired counterfactual outcomes for every individual. A counterfactual explanation module quantifies how clinical features shape benefit at the patient level, and uplift trees transform complex heterogeneity into simple, rule-based subgroups suitable for trial enrichment and clinical decision support.Using independent cohorts from OneFlorida + and All of Us, we screened outpatient prescriptions with at least 20 percent exposure among 28,605 individuals with mild cognitive impairment, of whom 4,990 progressed to Alzheimer's disease. CauReL substantially improved covariate balance and distributional overlap across drug cohorts and achieved strong predictive accuracy for both incidence (AUC greater than 0.90) and progression timing (C index 0.81 to 0.84; Spearman 0.80 to 0.86). Twenty drugs showed consistent protective associations, with four emerging as highly reproducible across both networks, the metabolic agents liraglutide and empagliflozin and the neuroactive agents entacapone and amantadine. These drugs were associated with meaningful absolute risk reductions and clinically significant delays in progression from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer's disease. Metabolic drugs produced the strongest benefits in individuals with diabetes, obesity, or cardiovascular disease, whereas neuroactive drugs provided broadly consistent protection across most subgroups.CauReL is available as an open source Python package with a companion web server for direct application to new cohorts or disease settings (https://caurel.site/). This work delivers a scalable and interpretable framework for prioritizing repurposable drugs and designing targeted clinical trials for the patients most likely to benefit.
Additional Links: PMID-41510304
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@article {pmid41510304,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, Y and Zhou, M and Tang, Z and Xiong, C and Asken, B and Yang, B and Su, J and Zhou, X and Song, Q},
title = {CauReL: Dynamic Counterfactual Learning for Precision Drug Repurposing in Alzheimer's Disease.},
journal = {Research square},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.21203/rs.3.rs-8206648/v1},
pmid = {41510304},
issn = {2693-5015},
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease has few effective therapies, and decades of amyloid- and tau-focused trials have delivered only modest benefit with substantial toxicity. Drug repurposing using real-world data offers a faster and lower-risk route to new treatments, yet current approaches typically average effects across populations, model disease onset and progression separately, and provide little insight into which patients are most likely to benefit. We present CauReL, a dynamic counterfactual representation learning framework that enables transparent, patient specific estimation of treatment effects from large-scale electronic health records for precision drug repurposing in AD. CauReL first learns balanced latent representations of treated and untreated patients using Integral Probability Metric regularization, then jointly predicts two clinically linked outcomes, incident AD and time from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to AD, to generate paired counterfactual outcomes for every individual. A counterfactual explanation module quantifies how clinical features shape benefit at the patient level, and uplift trees transform complex heterogeneity into simple, rule-based subgroups suitable for trial enrichment and clinical decision support.Using independent cohorts from OneFlorida + and All of Us, we screened outpatient prescriptions with at least 20 percent exposure among 28,605 individuals with mild cognitive impairment, of whom 4,990 progressed to Alzheimer's disease. CauReL substantially improved covariate balance and distributional overlap across drug cohorts and achieved strong predictive accuracy for both incidence (AUC greater than 0.90) and progression timing (C index 0.81 to 0.84; Spearman 0.80 to 0.86). Twenty drugs showed consistent protective associations, with four emerging as highly reproducible across both networks, the metabolic agents liraglutide and empagliflozin and the neuroactive agents entacapone and amantadine. These drugs were associated with meaningful absolute risk reductions and clinically significant delays in progression from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer's disease. Metabolic drugs produced the strongest benefits in individuals with diabetes, obesity, or cardiovascular disease, whereas neuroactive drugs provided broadly consistent protection across most subgroups.CauReL is available as an open source Python package with a companion web server for direct application to new cohorts or disease settings (https://caurel.site/). This work delivers a scalable and interpretable framework for prioritizing repurposable drugs and designing targeted clinical trials for the patients most likely to benefit.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-09
CmpDate: 2026-01-09
Inhibition of N6-Methyladenosine Accumulation by Targeting METTL3 Mitigates Tau Pathology and Cognitive Decline in Alzheimer's Disease.
Research square pii:rs.3.rs-8379573.
Dysregulation of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification of RNA has emerged as a novel feature of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Here, we investigate the relationship between m6A modification and AD pathology, and the therapeutic potential of modulating excessive m6A via its "writer" methyltransferase METTL3 in a humanized P301S tau transgenic mouse model of AD (PS19). We observed significantly elevated m6A levels in human post-mortem AD frontal cortex tissue compared to healthy controls, which positively correlated with hyperphosphorylated tau and amyloid-β (Aβ) deposition. These effects were recapitulated in the PS19 tau mice model of AD. Importantly, treatment of PS19 mice with the METTL3 inhibitor STM2457 reduced excessive m6A, alleviated tau pathology, and attenuated neurodegeneration. Behavioral assessments further demonstrated that STM2457-treated PS19 mice exhibited significantly improved learning and memory relative to untreated PS19 mice. Our results identify m6A as a critical contributor to AD pathogenesis and demonstrate that pharmacological inhibition of METTL3 represents a promising therapeutic strategy to improve cognition in AD.
Additional Links: PMID-41510223
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@article {pmid41510223,
year = {2025},
author = {Jiang, L and Tucker, A and Sepehri, C and Patel, D and Wang, Q and Yuan, S and Sherman, E and Chen, Y and Beh, J and Downey, A and Goldberg, D and Gniadzik, W and Ma, X},
title = {Inhibition of N6-Methyladenosine Accumulation by Targeting METTL3 Mitigates Tau Pathology and Cognitive Decline in Alzheimer's Disease.},
journal = {Research square},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.21203/rs.3.rs-8379573/v1},
pmid = {41510223},
issn = {2693-5015},
abstract = {Dysregulation of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification of RNA has emerged as a novel feature of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Here, we investigate the relationship between m6A modification and AD pathology, and the therapeutic potential of modulating excessive m6A via its "writer" methyltransferase METTL3 in a humanized P301S tau transgenic mouse model of AD (PS19). We observed significantly elevated m6A levels in human post-mortem AD frontal cortex tissue compared to healthy controls, which positively correlated with hyperphosphorylated tau and amyloid-β (Aβ) deposition. These effects were recapitulated in the PS19 tau mice model of AD. Importantly, treatment of PS19 mice with the METTL3 inhibitor STM2457 reduced excessive m6A, alleviated tau pathology, and attenuated neurodegeneration. Behavioral assessments further demonstrated that STM2457-treated PS19 mice exhibited significantly improved learning and memory relative to untreated PS19 mice. Our results identify m6A as a critical contributor to AD pathogenesis and demonstrate that pharmacological inhibition of METTL3 represents a promising therapeutic strategy to improve cognition in AD.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-16
CmpDate: 2026-01-15
Catestatin ameliorates tauopathy and amyloidogenesis via adrenergic inhibition.
bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology.
Neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease (AD), Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD), and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) are characterized by Tau aggregation, synaptic dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and progressive cognitive decline. Although metabolic dysregulation and neuropeptide imbalance have been linked to these disorders, the functional consequences of such imbalance and its potential for therapeutic reversal remain poorly understood. Our previous work identified chromogranin A (CgA), which encodes a pro-hormone for several metabolic peptides, as a key regulator of Tau pathology. Here, we investigate Catestatin (CST), a CgA-derived peptide that is a potent inhibitor of catecholamine release and has been shown to increase insulin sensitivity and lower peripheral blood pressure. We report significant reductions in CST levels in the hippocampus and cortex of AD brains, as well as in the frontal cortex of CBD and the basal ganglia of PSP. Supplementing CST in cortical neuronal cultures and organotypic slice cultures (OTSC) decreased Tau phosphorylation and aggregation. In vivo, CST administration in PS19 Tauopathy mice reduced pathological Tau species, attenuated gliosis, and improved cognitive function. CST treatment also lowered amyloid plaque burden and neuroinflammation in 5xFAD mice. Mechanistically, CST decreased epinephrine (EPI) levels in both PS19 and 5xFAD mice and suppressed downstream protein kinase A (PKA) hyperactivation in PS19 and OTSC. These findings reveal a previously unrecognized neuropeptidergic mechanism linking CST deficiency to elevated adrenergic receptor (ADR)-EPI-PKA stress signaling and Tauopathy-driven neurodegeneration, suggesting CST replacement as a promising therapeutic approach.
Additional Links: PMID-41509358
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@article {pmid41509358,
year = {2026},
author = {Jati, S and Kal, S and Munoz-Mayorga, D and Tang, K and Sahoo, D and Chen, X and Mahata, SK},
title = {Catestatin ameliorates tauopathy and amyloidogenesis via adrenergic inhibition.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41509358},
issn = {2692-8205},
support = {I21 RX004398/RX/RRD VA/United States ; P30 NS047101/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; R21 AG091126/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AG074273/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R21 AG078635/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AG078185/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R21 AG080246/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 GM138385/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; UG3 TR003355/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI155696/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {Neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease (AD), Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD), and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) are characterized by Tau aggregation, synaptic dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and progressive cognitive decline. Although metabolic dysregulation and neuropeptide imbalance have been linked to these disorders, the functional consequences of such imbalance and its potential for therapeutic reversal remain poorly understood. Our previous work identified chromogranin A (CgA), which encodes a pro-hormone for several metabolic peptides, as a key regulator of Tau pathology. Here, we investigate Catestatin (CST), a CgA-derived peptide that is a potent inhibitor of catecholamine release and has been shown to increase insulin sensitivity and lower peripheral blood pressure. We report significant reductions in CST levels in the hippocampus and cortex of AD brains, as well as in the frontal cortex of CBD and the basal ganglia of PSP. Supplementing CST in cortical neuronal cultures and organotypic slice cultures (OTSC) decreased Tau phosphorylation and aggregation. In vivo, CST administration in PS19 Tauopathy mice reduced pathological Tau species, attenuated gliosis, and improved cognitive function. CST treatment also lowered amyloid plaque burden and neuroinflammation in 5xFAD mice. Mechanistically, CST decreased epinephrine (EPI) levels in both PS19 and 5xFAD mice and suppressed downstream protein kinase A (PKA) hyperactivation in PS19 and OTSC. These findings reveal a previously unrecognized neuropeptidergic mechanism linking CST deficiency to elevated adrenergic receptor (ADR)-EPI-PKA stress signaling and Tauopathy-driven neurodegeneration, suggesting CST replacement as a promising therapeutic approach.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-13
CmpDate: 2026-01-12
Optimization and Characterization of SHIP1 Ligands for Cellular Target Engagement and Activity in Alzheimer's Disease Models.
bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology.
Src homology 2 domain-containing inositol 5-phosphatase 1 (SHIP1), encoded by the gene INPP5D, is a lipid phosphatase that negatively regulates immune receptor signaling in hematopoietic cells and microglia. Here, we describe a pyridyl-pyrazole-piperidine scaffold and the lead compound 3-((2-chlorobenzyl)oxy)-5-(1-(piperidin-4-yl)-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)pyridine (32), which demonstrates SHIP1 target engagement, brain exposure, and evidence of a central pharmacodynamic response in vivo. Structure-activity relationship studies, guided by biochemical and cellular assays using multiple human and murine protein constructs and cells, identified SHIP1-active ligands. A thermal shift assay using full-length SHIP1 was used to assess compounds for cellular target engagement, while studies in IL-4 conditioned THP-1 cells was used to demonstrate changes in downstream AKT signaling. Targeted lipidomics revealed changes in the overall phosphoinositide pool consistent with SHIP1 target engagement and reduction of phospho-AKT levels. In a protein-lipid overlay assay, compound 32 induced changes in the relative association of SHIP1 with multiple phosphatidylinositols on a membrane surface. In high-content cellular imaging assays, compound 32 enhanced the uptake of myelin/membrane debris and fibrillar amyloid by primary murine microglia, phenocopying a genetic model with reduced SHIP1 expression. Finally, oral administration of compound 32 resulted in brain exposure sufficient to alter gene expression and reduce IL-1β levels as pharmacodynamic markers of microglial activation and neuroinflammation in an amyloidosis mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Collectively, these results define a scaffold with SHIP1 target engagement, CNS exposure, and in vivo activity, providing a foundation for the optimization of brain-penetrant SHIP1 ligands suitable for further mechanistic studies and therapeutic development for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Additional Links: PMID-41509252
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@article {pmid41509252,
year = {2026},
author = {Jesudason, CD and Rangel-Barajas, C and Beach, CJ and Beck, DE and Caballero-Floran, IH and Clayton, WB and Da Silva, L and David, JC and Doolen, S and Faulkner, AN and Hamdani, AK and Huhe, H and Huynh, K and Imhoff, RD and Javens-Wolfe, J and Mason, ER and Moussaif, M and Singhal, K and Soni, DM and van Buuren-Milne, M and Williams, SP and Angus, SP and Chu, S and Dage, JL and Hipskind, PA and Johnson, TS and Kaddurah-Daouk, R and Lamb, BT and Meikle, PJ and Mesecar, AD and Palkowitz, AD and Quinney, SK and Sukoff Rizzo, SJ and Oblak, AL and Richardson, TI},
title = {Optimization and Characterization of SHIP1 Ligands for Cellular Target Engagement and Activity in Alzheimer's Disease Models.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41509252},
issn = {2692-8205},
support = {T32 AG071444/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; U01 AG088021/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; U54 AG065181/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; T32 CA272370/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; P30 CA082709/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AG081322/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {Src homology 2 domain-containing inositol 5-phosphatase 1 (SHIP1), encoded by the gene INPP5D, is a lipid phosphatase that negatively regulates immune receptor signaling in hematopoietic cells and microglia. Here, we describe a pyridyl-pyrazole-piperidine scaffold and the lead compound 3-((2-chlorobenzyl)oxy)-5-(1-(piperidin-4-yl)-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)pyridine (32), which demonstrates SHIP1 target engagement, brain exposure, and evidence of a central pharmacodynamic response in vivo. Structure-activity relationship studies, guided by biochemical and cellular assays using multiple human and murine protein constructs and cells, identified SHIP1-active ligands. A thermal shift assay using full-length SHIP1 was used to assess compounds for cellular target engagement, while studies in IL-4 conditioned THP-1 cells was used to demonstrate changes in downstream AKT signaling. Targeted lipidomics revealed changes in the overall phosphoinositide pool consistent with SHIP1 target engagement and reduction of phospho-AKT levels. In a protein-lipid overlay assay, compound 32 induced changes in the relative association of SHIP1 with multiple phosphatidylinositols on a membrane surface. In high-content cellular imaging assays, compound 32 enhanced the uptake of myelin/membrane debris and fibrillar amyloid by primary murine microglia, phenocopying a genetic model with reduced SHIP1 expression. Finally, oral administration of compound 32 resulted in brain exposure sufficient to alter gene expression and reduce IL-1β levels as pharmacodynamic markers of microglial activation and neuroinflammation in an amyloidosis mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Collectively, these results define a scaffold with SHIP1 target engagement, CNS exposure, and in vivo activity, providing a foundation for the optimization of brain-penetrant SHIP1 ligands suitable for further mechanistic studies and therapeutic development for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-09
CmpDate: 2026-01-09
Kv1.3 inhibition alleviates neuropathology via neuroinflammatory and resilience pathways in a mouse model of Aβ pathology.
bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology pii:2025.12.25.696456.
Inhibition of voltage-gated potassium channel Kv1.3 is a therapeutic strategy to curb microglia-mediated neuroinflammation in neurodegeneration, although the cellular and signaling mechanisms of disease-modification by Kv1.3 blockers are unclear. In this study, we delineate protective mechanisms of Kv1.3 blockade in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology using comprehensive transcriptomics and proteomics profiling of brain, corresponding with neuropathological effects of two translationally relevant Kv1.3 blockers, namely small molecule PAP-1 and peptide ShK-223. Following 3 months of treatment, both molecules reduced Ab plaque burden. Single nuclear RNA seq (snRNA seq) of brain nuclei showed that PAP-1 disproportionately impacted oligodendrocytes and microglia and increased crosstalk between neurons and astrocytes with endothelial cells. In contrast, ShK-223 had pronounced effects on glutamatergic neurons and astrocytes. Both blockers increased expression of myelination genes in oligodendrocytes and synaptic genes in neurons. Neuroprotective effects of PAP-1 were further confirmed by bulk brain transcriptomics and proteomics whereby PAP-1 increased levels of synaptic, cognitive resilience and mitochondrial proteins, while decreasing glial and immune pathways including STAT1/3 phosphorylation. Using proximity labeling and co-immunoprecipitation, we found that Kv1.3 interacts with STAT1/3 in microglia. Using microglial cell lines and primary microglia, we discovered a preferential functional coupling between Kv1.3 and type 2 but not type 1 IFN signaling. Brain-level disease modification by Kv1.3 blockade was reflected in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) via reduced levels of neurofilament-light (NEFL) and resilience protein RPH3A, both of which are increased in human AD CSF. Together, this study demonstrates functional links between Kv1.3 channels and type 2 IFN signaling and reveals distinct cellular effects of Kv1.3 blockers in AD pathology that correspond with reduced neuropathology and neuroinflammation, augmentation of resilience and neuro-vascular pathways, along with biomarkers of therapeutic effect.
Additional Links: PMID-41509242
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@article {pmid41509242,
year = {2025},
author = {Kumari, R and Bowen, C and Srivastava, U and Brandelli, AD and Kumar, P and Kour, D and Malepati, S and Jang, WE and Bromwich, M and Zeng, H and Sing, A and Sloan, SA and Wulff, H and Rangaraju, S},
title = {Kv1.3 inhibition alleviates neuropathology via neuroinflammatory and resilience pathways in a mouse model of Aβ pathology.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2025.12.25.696456},
pmid = {41509242},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Inhibition of voltage-gated potassium channel Kv1.3 is a therapeutic strategy to curb microglia-mediated neuroinflammation in neurodegeneration, although the cellular and signaling mechanisms of disease-modification by Kv1.3 blockers are unclear. In this study, we delineate protective mechanisms of Kv1.3 blockade in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology using comprehensive transcriptomics and proteomics profiling of brain, corresponding with neuropathological effects of two translationally relevant Kv1.3 blockers, namely small molecule PAP-1 and peptide ShK-223. Following 3 months of treatment, both molecules reduced Ab plaque burden. Single nuclear RNA seq (snRNA seq) of brain nuclei showed that PAP-1 disproportionately impacted oligodendrocytes and microglia and increased crosstalk between neurons and astrocytes with endothelial cells. In contrast, ShK-223 had pronounced effects on glutamatergic neurons and astrocytes. Both blockers increased expression of myelination genes in oligodendrocytes and synaptic genes in neurons. Neuroprotective effects of PAP-1 were further confirmed by bulk brain transcriptomics and proteomics whereby PAP-1 increased levels of synaptic, cognitive resilience and mitochondrial proteins, while decreasing glial and immune pathways including STAT1/3 phosphorylation. Using proximity labeling and co-immunoprecipitation, we found that Kv1.3 interacts with STAT1/3 in microglia. Using microglial cell lines and primary microglia, we discovered a preferential functional coupling between Kv1.3 and type 2 but not type 1 IFN signaling. Brain-level disease modification by Kv1.3 blockade was reflected in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) via reduced levels of neurofilament-light (NEFL) and resilience protein RPH3A, both of which are increased in human AD CSF. Together, this study demonstrates functional links between Kv1.3 channels and type 2 IFN signaling and reveals distinct cellular effects of Kv1.3 blockers in AD pathology that correspond with reduced neuropathology and neuroinflammation, augmentation of resilience and neuro-vascular pathways, along with biomarkers of therapeutic effect.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-13
CmpDate: 2026-01-09
[Treatment of Alzheimer's disease from gut-brain interactions based on theory of "spleen deficiency leading to obstruction of nine orifices"].
Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica, 50(19):5330-5339.
Alzheimer's disease(AD) is the most common form of dementia. The decline in sensory function is associated with pathological damage in specific brain regions during the early stages of AD. Such decline often precedes cognitive impairment, worsens as the pathology progresses, and constitutes a high-risk factor for the onset of AD. According to traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), all orifices are connected to the brain, and the brain governs all orifices. The mind originates from and depends on both the brain and orifices, with their physiological and pathological states being closely interconnected. In AD, dysfunction of the sensory orifices is closely linked to the later-stage manifestations of impaired mental clarity and consciousness. The theory that "spleen deficiency leading to obstruction of nine orifices" emphasizes that insufficiency of the spleen and stomach is the root cause of orifice dysfunction. Both internal and external pathogenic factors in AD can damage the spleen and stomach, leading to the abnormal movement of turbid substances generated by these organs, which may transform into turbid toxins. This, in turn, gradually impairs the orifices, brain, and mind, thereby exacerbating the progression of AD. The digestive, absorptive, and transport functions of the spleen and stomach are similar to those of the gut microbiota. Spleen deficiency is a core pathological factor in diseases associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis. Such dysbiosis can lead to dysfunction in the neural, metabolic, and immune pathways involved in gut-brain interactions, constituting the biological basis for the TCM concept that "spleen deficiency leading to obstruction of nine orifices". Under the guidance of this theory, employing spleen-strengthening and cognition-enhancing drugs alongside aromatic orifice-opening drugs to support spleen function, and using ingredients that promote dampness elimination, lubrication, and blood stasis resolution to dispel pathogenic factors from the orifices, can help restore the structural balance of the gut microbiota, regulate related metabolic and immune dysfunctions, and ultimately delay the progression of AD. This article explores the etiology, pathogenesis, and therapeutic strategies of AD based on the theory of "spleen deficiency leading to obstruction of nine orifices", and interprets its biological significance from the perspective of gut-brain interactions, aiming to provide new insights for the prevention and treatment of AD.
Additional Links: PMID-41508224
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@article {pmid41508224,
year = {2025},
author = {Ma, YJ and Deng, SX and Liao, ZH and Gao, MH and Ding, HX and Xu, ZQ and Lu, YT and Yang, C and Wang, Q},
title = {[Treatment of Alzheimer's disease from gut-brain interactions based on theory of "spleen deficiency leading to obstruction of nine orifices"].},
journal = {Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica},
volume = {50},
number = {19},
pages = {5330-5339},
doi = {10.19540/j.cnki.cjcmm.20250618.501},
pmid = {41508224},
issn = {1001-5302},
mesh = {*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/physiopathology/metabolism ; Humans ; *Brain/physiopathology/drug effects/metabolism ; *Spleen/physiopathology/drug effects ; Animals ; Medicine, Chinese Traditional ; Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; },
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease(AD) is the most common form of dementia. The decline in sensory function is associated with pathological damage in specific brain regions during the early stages of AD. Such decline often precedes cognitive impairment, worsens as the pathology progresses, and constitutes a high-risk factor for the onset of AD. According to traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), all orifices are connected to the brain, and the brain governs all orifices. The mind originates from and depends on both the brain and orifices, with their physiological and pathological states being closely interconnected. In AD, dysfunction of the sensory orifices is closely linked to the later-stage manifestations of impaired mental clarity and consciousness. The theory that "spleen deficiency leading to obstruction of nine orifices" emphasizes that insufficiency of the spleen and stomach is the root cause of orifice dysfunction. Both internal and external pathogenic factors in AD can damage the spleen and stomach, leading to the abnormal movement of turbid substances generated by these organs, which may transform into turbid toxins. This, in turn, gradually impairs the orifices, brain, and mind, thereby exacerbating the progression of AD. The digestive, absorptive, and transport functions of the spleen and stomach are similar to those of the gut microbiota. Spleen deficiency is a core pathological factor in diseases associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis. Such dysbiosis can lead to dysfunction in the neural, metabolic, and immune pathways involved in gut-brain interactions, constituting the biological basis for the TCM concept that "spleen deficiency leading to obstruction of nine orifices". Under the guidance of this theory, employing spleen-strengthening and cognition-enhancing drugs alongside aromatic orifice-opening drugs to support spleen function, and using ingredients that promote dampness elimination, lubrication, and blood stasis resolution to dispel pathogenic factors from the orifices, can help restore the structural balance of the gut microbiota, regulate related metabolic and immune dysfunctions, and ultimately delay the progression of AD. This article explores the etiology, pathogenesis, and therapeutic strategies of AD based on the theory of "spleen deficiency leading to obstruction of nine orifices", and interprets its biological significance from the perspective of gut-brain interactions, aiming to provide new insights for the prevention and treatment of AD.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/physiopathology/metabolism
Humans
*Brain/physiopathology/drug effects/metabolism
*Spleen/physiopathology/drug effects
Animals
Medicine, Chinese Traditional
Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use
Gastrointestinal Microbiome
RevDate: 2026-01-08
CmpDate: 2026-01-09
[Study on quality markers of Pleione yunnanensis for "same treatment for different diseases" in liver inflammation and Alzheimer's disease based on UHPLC fingerprint and network pharmacology].
Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica, 50(20):5684-5696.
This study aims to screen quality markers(Q-markers) of Pleione yunnanensis for the treatment of liver inflammation and Alzheimer's disease(AD) based on the concept of "same treatment for different diseases" using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography(UHPLC) fingerprinting combined with network pharmacology and molecular docking, and to perform quantitative analysis of the identified Q-markers. The UHPLC fingerprints of 15 batches of P. yunnanensis were established and subjected to similarity evaluation, cluster analysis(CA), principal component analysis(PCA), and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis(OPLS-DA) to identify characteristic components responsible for quality variations. Network pharmacology and molecular docking were employed to explore the potential active components, related targets, and signaling pathways underlying the "same treatment for different diseases" mechanism for liver inflammation and AD. Based on the criteria of effectiveness, specificity, and measurability, Q-markers of P. yunnanensis were identified and quantified. Ten common peaks were identified in the UHPLC fingerprints of 15 batches, with eight components identified. Similarity scores ranged from 0.774 to 0.987. Chemical pattern recognition analysis identified that shancigusin H, militarine, and gymnoside Ⅴ were the major characteristic components contributing to quality differences among batches. RESULTS:: of network pharmacology and molecular docking revealed that dactylorhin A and militarine were the key active components exerting anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. These components acted on 13 core targets, including SRC, CASP3, and CTNNB1, and regulated signaling pathways such as the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and arachidonic acid metabolism. Based on the effectiveness, specificity, and measurability of Q-marker, dactylorhin A and militarine were selected as the Q-markers of P. yunnanensis. Quantitative analysis demonstrated that the content of dactylorhin A ranged from 0.527% to 2.21%, and militarine ranged from 0.731% to 2.58% across the 15 batches. The UHPLC fingerprint method and Q-marker-based quantification approach are robust and reliable, providing experimental evidence for quality control and standardization of P. yunnanensis.
Additional Links: PMID-41508200
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@article {pmid41508200,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, YX and Wang, J and Chen, QQ and Zhang, JL and Wang, Q and Long, YL and Zhou, SJ and Gong, ZP and Zheng, L and Huang, Y and Li, YT},
title = {[Study on quality markers of Pleione yunnanensis for "same treatment for different diseases" in liver inflammation and Alzheimer's disease based on UHPLC fingerprint and network pharmacology].},
journal = {Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica},
volume = {50},
number = {20},
pages = {5684-5696},
doi = {10.19540/j.cnki.cjcmm.20250710.202},
pmid = {41508200},
issn = {1001-5302},
mesh = {Network Pharmacology ; *Drugs, Chinese Herbal/chemistry/therapeutic use ; *Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/genetics/metabolism ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid/methods ; Humans ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; Biomarkers/analysis ; Quality Control ; },
abstract = {This study aims to screen quality markers(Q-markers) of Pleione yunnanensis for the treatment of liver inflammation and Alzheimer's disease(AD) based on the concept of "same treatment for different diseases" using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography(UHPLC) fingerprinting combined with network pharmacology and molecular docking, and to perform quantitative analysis of the identified Q-markers. The UHPLC fingerprints of 15 batches of P. yunnanensis were established and subjected to similarity evaluation, cluster analysis(CA), principal component analysis(PCA), and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis(OPLS-DA) to identify characteristic components responsible for quality variations. Network pharmacology and molecular docking were employed to explore the potential active components, related targets, and signaling pathways underlying the "same treatment for different diseases" mechanism for liver inflammation and AD. Based on the criteria of effectiveness, specificity, and measurability, Q-markers of P. yunnanensis were identified and quantified. Ten common peaks were identified in the UHPLC fingerprints of 15 batches, with eight components identified. Similarity scores ranged from 0.774 to 0.987. Chemical pattern recognition analysis identified that shancigusin H, militarine, and gymnoside Ⅴ were the major characteristic components contributing to quality differences among batches. RESULTS:: of network pharmacology and molecular docking revealed that dactylorhin A and militarine were the key active components exerting anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. These components acted on 13 core targets, including SRC, CASP3, and CTNNB1, and regulated signaling pathways such as the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and arachidonic acid metabolism. Based on the effectiveness, specificity, and measurability of Q-marker, dactylorhin A and militarine were selected as the Q-markers of P. yunnanensis. Quantitative analysis demonstrated that the content of dactylorhin A ranged from 0.527% to 2.21%, and militarine ranged from 0.731% to 2.58% across the 15 batches. The UHPLC fingerprint method and Q-marker-based quantification approach are robust and reliable, providing experimental evidence for quality control and standardization of P. yunnanensis.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Network Pharmacology
*Drugs, Chinese Herbal/chemistry/therapeutic use
*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/genetics/metabolism
Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid/methods
Humans
Molecular Docking Simulation
Biomarkers/analysis
Quality Control
RevDate: 2026-01-08
CmpDate: 2026-01-09
[Mechanism of Liuwei Dihuang Pills in enhancing GPNMB expression to regulate FcγRⅡB/c-Src pathway for prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease].
Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica, 50(21):6062-6071.
This study investigated the effect of Liuwei Dihuang Pills on the Fcγ receptor Ⅱ-b(FcγRⅡB)/c-Src tyrosine kinase(c-Src) pathway in senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8(SAMP8) by regulating the expression of the glycoprotein non-metastatic melanoma protein B(GPNMB) and explored the mechanism of the kidney-tonifying and essence-strengthening therapy in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.(1) For the effects of Liuwei Dihuang Pills on the learning and memory ability, hippocampal β-amyloid protein(Aβ), GPNMB, and autophagy function in SAMP8 mice, eight seven-month-old male senescence-accelerated mouse resistant 1(SAMR1) mice were used as a control group, and 16 male SAMP8 mice of the same age were randomly divided into a model group and a Liuwei Dihuang Pills group. The Liuwei Dihuang Pills group was given 2.36 g·kg~(-1) concentrated Liuwei Dihuang Pills solution by gavage, while the control group and the model group were given the same volume of normal saline twice a day for four consecutive weeks. The learning and memory ability of mice in each group was detected by the Morris water maze experiment; the expression level of Aβ in the hippocampus of mice were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) and immunohistochemistry; the expression of GPNMB in the hippocampus of mice was detected by immunofluorescence and Western blot; the expression level of ubiquitin-binding protein p62 and microtubule-associated protein light chain 3(LC3) Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ in the hippocampus of mice was measured by Western blot.(2) For the regulatory effect of GPNMB on the FcγRⅡB/c-Src pathway, eight seven-month-old male SAMR1 mice were used as a control group, and 24 male SAMP8 mice of the same age were randomly divided into a model group, an LV-Vector group, and an LV-GPNMB~(OE) group. The bilateral hippocampus of the LV-Vector group and LV-GPNMB~(OE) group was injected with LV-Vector and LV-GPNMB~(OE) of 2 μL/each side, respectively. Western blot was used to detect the expression level of p62, LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ, FcγRⅡB, Src homology 2 protein tyrosine phosphatase 1(SHP-1), and c-Src proteins in the hippocampus of mice.(3) For the effect of Liuwei Dihuang Pills in regulating the FcγRⅡB/c-Src pathway by increasing the GPNMB expression, 32 seven-month-old male SAMP8 mice were randomly divided into a model group, a Liuwei Dihuang Pills group, a Liuwei Dihuang Pills + LV-NC group, and a Liuwei Dihuang Pills + LV-shGPNMB group. The bilateral hippocampus of the Liuwei Dihuang Pills + LV-NC group and Liuwei Dihuang Pills + LV-shGPNMB group was injected with LV-NC and LV-shGPNMB, respectively, before the drug treatment. Western blot was used to detect the expression level of p62, LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ, FcγRⅡB, SHP-1, and c-Src proteins in the hippocampus of mice. The results showed that(1) compared with those of the control group, the escape latency of the model group was significantly increased, and the time spent in the target quadrant and the effective area was significantly decreased. The expression level of Aβ, GPNMB, and p62 in the hippocampus was significantly increased, and the level of LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ was significantly decreased. Compared with those of the model group, the escape latency of the Liuwei Dihuang Pills group was significantly shortened, and the time spent in the target quadrant and the effective area was significantly increased. The level of Aβ was significantly decreased, and the expression level of GPNMB was significantly increased. The expression level of p62 was significantly decreased, and the level of LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ was significantly increased.(2) Compared with those of the control group, the expression level of p62, FcγRⅡB, SHP-1, and c-Src proteins in the hippocampus of the model group was significantly increased, and the level of LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ was significantly decreased. Compared with those of the model group, the expression level of p62, FcγRⅡB, SHP-1, and c-Src in the LV-GPNMB~(OE) group was significantly decreased, and the level of LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ was significantly increased.(3) Compared with those of the model group, the expression level of p62, FcγRⅡB, SHP-1, and c-Src in the Liuwei Dihuang Pills group was significantly decreased, and the level of LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ was significantly increased. Compared with those of the Liuwei Dihuang Pills group, the expression level of p62, FcγRⅡB, SHP-1, and c-Src in the Liuwei Dihuang Pills + LV-shGPNMB group was significantly increased, and the level of LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ was significantly decreased. These results indicate that Liuwei Dihuang Pills can inhibit the FcγRⅡB/c-Src pathway by up-regulating the GPNMB expression, thereby increasing autophagy levels, enhancing neuroprotective ability, and alleviating Alzheimer's disease.
Additional Links: PMID-41508178
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@article {pmid41508178,
year = {2025},
author = {Hou, WX and Liu, YX and Miao, JR and Zhu, ZK and Yin, Y and Liu, JL and Zhao, DY},
title = {[Mechanism of Liuwei Dihuang Pills in enhancing GPNMB expression to regulate FcγRⅡB/c-Src pathway for prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease].},
journal = {Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica},
volume = {50},
number = {21},
pages = {6062-6071},
doi = {10.19540/j.cnki.cjcmm.20250805.401},
pmid = {41508178},
issn = {1001-5302},
mesh = {Animals ; *Drugs, Chinese Herbal/administration & dosage ; *Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/genetics/metabolism/prevention & control ; Male ; Mice ; *Membrane Glycoproteins/genetics/metabolism ; Humans ; Signal Transduction/drug effects ; *src-Family Kinases/metabolism/genetics ; Hippocampus/drug effects/metabolism ; Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism ; Memory/drug effects ; Eye Proteins ; },
abstract = {This study investigated the effect of Liuwei Dihuang Pills on the Fcγ receptor Ⅱ-b(FcγRⅡB)/c-Src tyrosine kinase(c-Src) pathway in senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8(SAMP8) by regulating the expression of the glycoprotein non-metastatic melanoma protein B(GPNMB) and explored the mechanism of the kidney-tonifying and essence-strengthening therapy in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.(1) For the effects of Liuwei Dihuang Pills on the learning and memory ability, hippocampal β-amyloid protein(Aβ), GPNMB, and autophagy function in SAMP8 mice, eight seven-month-old male senescence-accelerated mouse resistant 1(SAMR1) mice were used as a control group, and 16 male SAMP8 mice of the same age were randomly divided into a model group and a Liuwei Dihuang Pills group. The Liuwei Dihuang Pills group was given 2.36 g·kg~(-1) concentrated Liuwei Dihuang Pills solution by gavage, while the control group and the model group were given the same volume of normal saline twice a day for four consecutive weeks. The learning and memory ability of mice in each group was detected by the Morris water maze experiment; the expression level of Aβ in the hippocampus of mice were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) and immunohistochemistry; the expression of GPNMB in the hippocampus of mice was detected by immunofluorescence and Western blot; the expression level of ubiquitin-binding protein p62 and microtubule-associated protein light chain 3(LC3) Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ in the hippocampus of mice was measured by Western blot.(2) For the regulatory effect of GPNMB on the FcγRⅡB/c-Src pathway, eight seven-month-old male SAMR1 mice were used as a control group, and 24 male SAMP8 mice of the same age were randomly divided into a model group, an LV-Vector group, and an LV-GPNMB~(OE) group. The bilateral hippocampus of the LV-Vector group and LV-GPNMB~(OE) group was injected with LV-Vector and LV-GPNMB~(OE) of 2 μL/each side, respectively. Western blot was used to detect the expression level of p62, LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ, FcγRⅡB, Src homology 2 protein tyrosine phosphatase 1(SHP-1), and c-Src proteins in the hippocampus of mice.(3) For the effect of Liuwei Dihuang Pills in regulating the FcγRⅡB/c-Src pathway by increasing the GPNMB expression, 32 seven-month-old male SAMP8 mice were randomly divided into a model group, a Liuwei Dihuang Pills group, a Liuwei Dihuang Pills + LV-NC group, and a Liuwei Dihuang Pills + LV-shGPNMB group. The bilateral hippocampus of the Liuwei Dihuang Pills + LV-NC group and Liuwei Dihuang Pills + LV-shGPNMB group was injected with LV-NC and LV-shGPNMB, respectively, before the drug treatment. Western blot was used to detect the expression level of p62, LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ, FcγRⅡB, SHP-1, and c-Src proteins in the hippocampus of mice. The results showed that(1) compared with those of the control group, the escape latency of the model group was significantly increased, and the time spent in the target quadrant and the effective area was significantly decreased. The expression level of Aβ, GPNMB, and p62 in the hippocampus was significantly increased, and the level of LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ was significantly decreased. Compared with those of the model group, the escape latency of the Liuwei Dihuang Pills group was significantly shortened, and the time spent in the target quadrant and the effective area was significantly increased. The level of Aβ was significantly decreased, and the expression level of GPNMB was significantly increased. The expression level of p62 was significantly decreased, and the level of LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ was significantly increased.(2) Compared with those of the control group, the expression level of p62, FcγRⅡB, SHP-1, and c-Src proteins in the hippocampus of the model group was significantly increased, and the level of LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ was significantly decreased. Compared with those of the model group, the expression level of p62, FcγRⅡB, SHP-1, and c-Src in the LV-GPNMB~(OE) group was significantly decreased, and the level of LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ was significantly increased.(3) Compared with those of the model group, the expression level of p62, FcγRⅡB, SHP-1, and c-Src in the Liuwei Dihuang Pills group was significantly decreased, and the level of LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ was significantly increased. Compared with those of the Liuwei Dihuang Pills group, the expression level of p62, FcγRⅡB, SHP-1, and c-Src in the Liuwei Dihuang Pills + LV-shGPNMB group was significantly increased, and the level of LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ was significantly decreased. These results indicate that Liuwei Dihuang Pills can inhibit the FcγRⅡB/c-Src pathway by up-regulating the GPNMB expression, thereby increasing autophagy levels, enhancing neuroprotective ability, and alleviating Alzheimer's disease.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Animals
*Drugs, Chinese Herbal/administration & dosage
*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/genetics/metabolism/prevention & control
Male
Mice
*Membrane Glycoproteins/genetics/metabolism
Humans
Signal Transduction/drug effects
*src-Family Kinases/metabolism/genetics
Hippocampus/drug effects/metabolism
Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism
Memory/drug effects
Eye Proteins
RevDate: 2026-01-08
CmpDate: 2026-01-09
[Research progress on prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease with Danggui Shaoyao San].
Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica, 50(22):6215-6226.
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder associated with aging. In traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), it is classified as a syndrome of root deficiency and branch excess. Danggui Shaoyao San, a classic formula traditionally used to treat gynecological disorders, has the effects of promoting blood circulation, removing blood stasis, opening orifices, awakening the mind, strengthening the spleen, resolving phlegm, and tonifying Qi to nourish the spirit. Modern clinical studies have found that Danggui Shaoyao San can slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease and has great potential for clinical application. Recent studies indicate that Danggui Shaoyao San treats Alzheimer's disease through multi-target and multi-level mechanisms. These include clearing amyloid β(Aβ) plaques and abnormally phosphorylated tau protein, maintaining brain-gut homeostasis, reducing oxidative stress, and regulating autophagy. Its key components, paeoniflorin and ferulic acid, have also been reported to exert antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects, eliminate pathological products, and regulate the cholinergic system in the brain. This paper traces the classic formula of Danggui Shaoyao San, conducts a theoretical integration of ancient and modern medical systems, and systematically summarizes and analyzes the research related to the treatment of Alzheimer's disease using Danggui Shaoyao San and its key components. It aims to provide a valuable reference for further research and modern application of Danggui Shaoyao San in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Additional Links: PMID-41508060
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@article {pmid41508060,
year = {2025},
author = {Sun, CX and Han, XY and Xiao, YT and Liu, YX and Ye, TY},
title = {[Research progress on prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease with Danggui Shaoyao San].},
journal = {Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica},
volume = {50},
number = {22},
pages = {6215-6226},
doi = {10.19540/j.cnki.cjcmm.20250626.601},
pmid = {41508060},
issn = {1001-5302},
mesh = {*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/prevention & control/metabolism ; *Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; Humans ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder associated with aging. In traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), it is classified as a syndrome of root deficiency and branch excess. Danggui Shaoyao San, a classic formula traditionally used to treat gynecological disorders, has the effects of promoting blood circulation, removing blood stasis, opening orifices, awakening the mind, strengthening the spleen, resolving phlegm, and tonifying Qi to nourish the spirit. Modern clinical studies have found that Danggui Shaoyao San can slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease and has great potential for clinical application. Recent studies indicate that Danggui Shaoyao San treats Alzheimer's disease through multi-target and multi-level mechanisms. These include clearing amyloid β(Aβ) plaques and abnormally phosphorylated tau protein, maintaining brain-gut homeostasis, reducing oxidative stress, and regulating autophagy. Its key components, paeoniflorin and ferulic acid, have also been reported to exert antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects, eliminate pathological products, and regulate the cholinergic system in the brain. This paper traces the classic formula of Danggui Shaoyao San, conducts a theoretical integration of ancient and modern medical systems, and systematically summarizes and analyzes the research related to the treatment of Alzheimer's disease using Danggui Shaoyao San and its key components. It aims to provide a valuable reference for further research and modern application of Danggui Shaoyao San in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy/prevention & control/metabolism
*Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
Humans
Animals
RevDate: 2026-01-14
CmpDate: 2026-01-12
Effect of cognitive training on cortisol levels in patients with neurocognitive disorders.
The journals of gerontology. Series B, Psychological sciences and social sciences, 81(2):.
OBJECTIVES: Elevated cortisol levels are linked to a greater risk and faster progression of neurocognitive disorders (NCDs). While interventions such as exercise and mindfulness have shown benefits in reducing cortisol, the impact of cognitive training (CT) on cortisol regulation remains unexplored. This study investigated whether CT affects cortisol levels and secretion patterns in individuals with minor or major NCD and compared its effects with those of pharmacological treatment.
METHODS: Sixty-two older adults with NCD and 43 healthy controls were recruited from the University Hospital of Padua in Italy. Among patients with NCD, 34 underwent CT (CT-NCD group), and 28 received pharmacological treatment (PH-NCD group). Salivary cortisol was measured at six points during the day, at baseline, and at 3 months (T1) and 6 months (T2) post-intervention.
RESULTS: Compared with pharmacological treatment (PH), CT showed a larger percentage decrease of daily cortisol exposure area under the curve (AUC) from baseline; however, the between-group difference did not remain statistically significant after covariate adjustment, and the only robust time-point effect was in the afternoon (F(1,47)=5.13; p = .028). Morning values decreased within groups, but between-group differences in the CAR were not significant; at bedtime, CT showed only a trend towards lower cortisol than PH (p = .071). Median morning values changed from 7.75 to 6.20 in CT and from 5.80 to 5.15 in PH.
DISCUSSION: Cognitive training may help lower cortisol levels and enhance cognitive function in NCD patients, suggesting its potential as a nonpharmacological tool to modulate hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity. Larger randomized studies are needed to confirm and extend these findings.
Additional Links: PMID-41507065
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@article {pmid41507065,
year = {2026},
author = {De Rui, M and Salerno Trapella, G and Ceolin, C and Ceccato, F and Antonelli, G and Ravelli, A and Andreuzza, R and Conti, E and Sarlo, M and Coin, A and Zanforlini, BM and Bertocco, A and Curreri, C and Tizianel, I and Mapelli, D and Sergi, G and Devita, M},
title = {Effect of cognitive training on cortisol levels in patients with neurocognitive disorders.},
journal = {The journals of gerontology. Series B, Psychological sciences and social sciences},
volume = {81},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41507065},
issn = {1758-5368},
mesh = {Humans ; *Hydrocortisone/metabolism/analysis ; Male ; Female ; Aged ; Saliva/chemistry ; *Neurocognitive Disorders/therapy/metabolism ; Middle Aged ; Italy ; *Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/methods ; Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System/metabolism ; Case-Control Studies ; Cognitive Training ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Elevated cortisol levels are linked to a greater risk and faster progression of neurocognitive disorders (NCDs). While interventions such as exercise and mindfulness have shown benefits in reducing cortisol, the impact of cognitive training (CT) on cortisol regulation remains unexplored. This study investigated whether CT affects cortisol levels and secretion patterns in individuals with minor or major NCD and compared its effects with those of pharmacological treatment.
METHODS: Sixty-two older adults with NCD and 43 healthy controls were recruited from the University Hospital of Padua in Italy. Among patients with NCD, 34 underwent CT (CT-NCD group), and 28 received pharmacological treatment (PH-NCD group). Salivary cortisol was measured at six points during the day, at baseline, and at 3 months (T1) and 6 months (T2) post-intervention.
RESULTS: Compared with pharmacological treatment (PH), CT showed a larger percentage decrease of daily cortisol exposure area under the curve (AUC) from baseline; however, the between-group difference did not remain statistically significant after covariate adjustment, and the only robust time-point effect was in the afternoon (F(1,47)=5.13; p = .028). Morning values decreased within groups, but between-group differences in the CAR were not significant; at bedtime, CT showed only a trend towards lower cortisol than PH (p = .071). Median morning values changed from 7.75 to 6.20 in CT and from 5.80 to 5.15 in PH.
DISCUSSION: Cognitive training may help lower cortisol levels and enhance cognitive function in NCD patients, suggesting its potential as a nonpharmacological tool to modulate hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity. Larger randomized studies are needed to confirm and extend these findings.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Hydrocortisone/metabolism/analysis
Male
Female
Aged
Saliva/chemistry
*Neurocognitive Disorders/therapy/metabolism
Middle Aged
Italy
*Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/methods
Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System/metabolism
Case-Control Studies
Cognitive Training
RevDate: 2026-01-08
CmpDate: 2026-01-08
[Guidelines for the management of chronic insomnia comorbid with common neuropsychiatric disorders in adults (2025 edition)].
Zhonghua nei ke za zhi, 65(1):18-44.
Chronic insomnia frequently co-occurs with common neuropsychiatric disorders, including migraine, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, generalized anxiety disorder, depressive disorder, body distress disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and disorders due to use of alcohol. The prevalence of these neuropsychiatric disorders is hiher among patients with chronic insomnia than in the general population, and the conditions mutually exacerbate each other. Comorbidities not only exacerbate the severity and increases the relapse risk of each condition but also lead to a poorer prognosis, more severe impairment of social functioning, a higher all-cause mortality risk, and greater treatment challenges. Therefore, the Sleep Disorders Group, Chinese Society of Neurology and Sleep Medicine Group,China Neurologist Association have convened experts in relevant fields, based on current medical evidence, to establish guideline for the management of Chinese adults with chronic insomnia comorbid with the aforementioned 10 categories of common neuropsychiatric disorders. The aim is to standardize clinical practice and improve treatment effectiveness and cure rates.
Additional Links: PMID-41506734
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@article {pmid41506734,
year = {2026},
author = {, and , },
title = {[Guidelines for the management of chronic insomnia comorbid with common neuropsychiatric disorders in adults (2025 edition)].},
journal = {Zhonghua nei ke za zhi},
volume = {65},
number = {1},
pages = {18-44},
doi = {10.3760/cma.j.cn112138-20250911-00539},
pmid = {41506734},
issn = {0578-1426},
support = {2021YFC2501400//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders/therapy/epidemiology/complications ; *Mental Disorders/therapy/complications/epidemiology ; Comorbidity ; Adult ; Parkinson Disease ; },
abstract = {Chronic insomnia frequently co-occurs with common neuropsychiatric disorders, including migraine, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, generalized anxiety disorder, depressive disorder, body distress disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and disorders due to use of alcohol. The prevalence of these neuropsychiatric disorders is hiher among patients with chronic insomnia than in the general population, and the conditions mutually exacerbate each other. Comorbidities not only exacerbate the severity and increases the relapse risk of each condition but also lead to a poorer prognosis, more severe impairment of social functioning, a higher all-cause mortality risk, and greater treatment challenges. Therefore, the Sleep Disorders Group, Chinese Society of Neurology and Sleep Medicine Group,China Neurologist Association have convened experts in relevant fields, based on current medical evidence, to establish guideline for the management of Chinese adults with chronic insomnia comorbid with the aforementioned 10 categories of common neuropsychiatric disorders. The aim is to standardize clinical practice and improve treatment effectiveness and cure rates.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders/therapy/epidemiology/complications
*Mental Disorders/therapy/complications/epidemiology
Comorbidity
Adult
Parkinson Disease
RevDate: 2026-01-09
Ameliorating effect and mechanism of p-coumaric acid liposome on cognitive dysfunction and mitochondrial damage under intermittent hypoxia.
Life sciences, 387:124197 pii:S0024-3205(26)00005-6 [Epub ahead of print].
AIMS: Alzheimer's disease (AD) has become a global public health problem. Mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to AD pathogenesis, and adequate oxygen supply is essential to maintain mitochondrial homeostasis. P-coumaric Acid (CA) is a polyphenol with anti-hypoxia and anti-AD properties. In this study, CA was formulated into a biomimetic liposome (CA-Lip) to enhance its therapeutic efficacy, and the underlying mechanisms were studied.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: APP/PS1 mice were divided into four groups: AD group, hypoxia treatment group (AD-HY group), hypoxia + CA treatment group (CA group), hypoxia + CA-Lip treatment group (CA-Lip group). Age-matched wild-type littermates were used as controls. Mice in the hypoxia treatment groups were exposed to a hypoxia chamber for 6 h daily for 8 weeks. Cognitive performance and mitochondrial function were subsequently evaluated to determine the ameliorating effects and mechanisms of CA-Lip.
RESULTS: Cognitive impairment and mitochondrial dysfunction were more pronounced in the AD-HY group than in the AD group. CA-Lip produced greater neuroprotective effects than CA. Mechanistic analyses showed that CA-Lip reduced amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation, enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis (upregulation of PGC-1α expression), maintained mitochondrial dynamics (upregulation of MFN2 expression, and downregulation of DRP1 expression), inhibited excessive mitophagy (downregulation of PINK1 and Parkin expression), enhanced cell autophagy (upregulation of ATG7 and LC3B expression and downregulation of mTOR and P62 expression), and reduced neuronal apoptosis.
CONCLUSIONS: CA-Lip effectively ameliorates hypoxic cognitive impairment by reducing Aβ generation and improving mitochondrial function.
Additional Links: PMID-41506537
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41506537,
year = {2026},
author = {Liang, YZ and Jiang, MZ and Xu, XT and Zhu, T and Guo, H and Ding, L and Zhong, H and Bao, J and Qin, LQ and Li, YH},
title = {Ameliorating effect and mechanism of p-coumaric acid liposome on cognitive dysfunction and mitochondrial damage under intermittent hypoxia.},
journal = {Life sciences},
volume = {387},
number = {},
pages = {124197},
doi = {10.1016/j.lfs.2026.124197},
pmid = {41506537},
issn = {1879-0631},
abstract = {AIMS: Alzheimer's disease (AD) has become a global public health problem. Mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to AD pathogenesis, and adequate oxygen supply is essential to maintain mitochondrial homeostasis. P-coumaric Acid (CA) is a polyphenol with anti-hypoxia and anti-AD properties. In this study, CA was formulated into a biomimetic liposome (CA-Lip) to enhance its therapeutic efficacy, and the underlying mechanisms were studied.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: APP/PS1 mice were divided into four groups: AD group, hypoxia treatment group (AD-HY group), hypoxia + CA treatment group (CA group), hypoxia + CA-Lip treatment group (CA-Lip group). Age-matched wild-type littermates were used as controls. Mice in the hypoxia treatment groups were exposed to a hypoxia chamber for 6 h daily for 8 weeks. Cognitive performance and mitochondrial function were subsequently evaluated to determine the ameliorating effects and mechanisms of CA-Lip.
RESULTS: Cognitive impairment and mitochondrial dysfunction were more pronounced in the AD-HY group than in the AD group. CA-Lip produced greater neuroprotective effects than CA. Mechanistic analyses showed that CA-Lip reduced amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation, enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis (upregulation of PGC-1α expression), maintained mitochondrial dynamics (upregulation of MFN2 expression, and downregulation of DRP1 expression), inhibited excessive mitophagy (downregulation of PINK1 and Parkin expression), enhanced cell autophagy (upregulation of ATG7 and LC3B expression and downregulation of mTOR and P62 expression), and reduced neuronal apoptosis.
CONCLUSIONS: CA-Lip effectively ameliorates hypoxic cognitive impairment by reducing Aβ generation and improving mitochondrial function.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-11
Novel insights into Alzheimer's disease through the study of individuals with Down syndrome.
Alzheimer's & dementia : the journal of the Alzheimer's Association, 22(1):e71074.
Additional Links: PMID-41505228
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41505228,
year = {2026},
author = {Head, E and Cohen, A and Fortea, J and McGlinchey, E},
title = {Novel insights into Alzheimer's disease through the study of individuals with Down syndrome.},
journal = {Alzheimer's & dementia : the journal of the Alzheimer's Association},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {e71074},
pmid = {41505228},
issn = {1552-5279},
support = {U19AG068054//NIH/NIA/ ; U19AG068054//NIH/NIA/ ; P30AG066519//NIH/NIA/ ; RF1AG079519//NIH/NIA/ ; U19AG068054//NIH/NIA/ ; P30AG066519//NIH/NIA/ ; RF1AG079519//NIH/NIA/ ; R01AG056850//NIH/NIA/ ; R21AG056974//NIH/NIA/ ; R01AG061566//NIH/NIA/ ; 1R01AG081394//NIH/NIA/ ; R61AG066543//NIH/NIA/ ; //Fondo de Investigaciones Sanitario/ ; INT21/00073//Carlos III Health Institute/ ; PI20/01473//Carlos III Health Institute/ ; PI23/01786//Carlos III Health Institute/ ; //Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) Program 1/ ; //Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional/ ; SLT006/17/00119//Department de Salut de la Generalitat de Catalunya/ ; //Fundación/ ; IIBSP-DOW-2020-151//Tatiana Pérez de Guzmán el Bueno/ ; H2020-SC1-BHC-2018-2020//Horizon 2020-Research and Innovation Framework Programme/ ; HPE-ADRD 24HPE1284307//Alzheimer Association/ ; },
}
RevDate: 2026-01-13
CmpDate: 2026-01-08
Neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's disease: Past, present, and future.
Alzheimer's & dementia : the journal of the Alzheimer's Association, 22(1):e71077.
Noncognitive neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS; e.g., depression, agitation) are nearly universal throughout the course of Alzheimer's disease (AD), cause significant adverse impact to patients and caregivers, and are associated with more rapid progression to severe dementia. Although the importance and presence of NPS was recognized by Dr. Alois Alzheimer himself, it was a series of research roundtables in the 2010s that propelled the understanding and treatment of NPS in AD forward. The mild behavioral impairment (MBI) construct was developed as a complementary behavioral analogue to mild cognitive impairment, solidifying the importance of NPS prior to dementia onset. Neurobiological underpinnings of NPS are being studied and the NPS treatment pipeline includes novel therapeutics, repurposing of existing pharmaceuticals, and non-pharmacologic interventions. The Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers and The National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center, being recognized in this special issue, have played a pivotal role in the recognition and study of NPS in AD. HIGHLIGHTS: Noncognitive neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) are nearly universal throughout the course of Alzheimer's disease (AD), cause significant adverse impact to patients and caregivers, and are associated with more rapid progression to severe dementia. A series of research roundtables in the last decade and a half have propelled the understanding and treatment of NPS in AD forward. The mild behavioral impairment (MBI) construct was developed as a complementary behavioral analogue to mild cognitive impairment, solidifying the importance of NPS prior to dementia onset. Neurobiological underpinnings of NPS are being studied and the treatment pipeline includes novel therapeutics, repurposing of pharmaceuticals, and non-pharmacologic interventions. The Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers and The National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center have played a pivotal role in the recognition and study of NPS in AD.
Additional Links: PMID-41505203
PubMed:
Citation:
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hide bibtex listing
@article {pmid41505203,
year = {2026},
author = {Lyketsos, CG and Peters, ME},
title = {Neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's disease: Past, present, and future.},
journal = {Alzheimer's & dementia : the journal of the Alzheimer's Association},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {e71077},
pmid = {41505203},
issn = {1552-5279},
support = {P30AG066507//Johns Hopkins Alzheimer's Disease Research Center/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Alzheimer Disease/psychology/complications ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/psychology ; *Depression/etiology ; Disease Progression ; },
abstract = {Noncognitive neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS; e.g., depression, agitation) are nearly universal throughout the course of Alzheimer's disease (AD), cause significant adverse impact to patients and caregivers, and are associated with more rapid progression to severe dementia. Although the importance and presence of NPS was recognized by Dr. Alois Alzheimer himself, it was a series of research roundtables in the 2010s that propelled the understanding and treatment of NPS in AD forward. The mild behavioral impairment (MBI) construct was developed as a complementary behavioral analogue to mild cognitive impairment, solidifying the importance of NPS prior to dementia onset. Neurobiological underpinnings of NPS are being studied and the NPS treatment pipeline includes novel therapeutics, repurposing of existing pharmaceuticals, and non-pharmacologic interventions. The Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers and The National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center, being recognized in this special issue, have played a pivotal role in the recognition and study of NPS in AD. HIGHLIGHTS: Noncognitive neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) are nearly universal throughout the course of Alzheimer's disease (AD), cause significant adverse impact to patients and caregivers, and are associated with more rapid progression to severe dementia. A series of research roundtables in the last decade and a half have propelled the understanding and treatment of NPS in AD forward. The mild behavioral impairment (MBI) construct was developed as a complementary behavioral analogue to mild cognitive impairment, solidifying the importance of NPS prior to dementia onset. Neurobiological underpinnings of NPS are being studied and the treatment pipeline includes novel therapeutics, repurposing of pharmaceuticals, and non-pharmacologic interventions. The Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers and The National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center have played a pivotal role in the recognition and study of NPS in AD.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Alzheimer Disease/psychology/complications
*Cognitive Dysfunction/psychology
*Depression/etiology
Disease Progression
RevDate: 2026-01-10
CmpDate: 2026-01-08
Luliconazole-Loaded Nanoliposomes as a Repurposing Strategy to Combat Memory Dysfunction in LPS-Induced Alzheimer's Rats.
ACS omega, 10(48):59655-59674.
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major neurodegenerative disorder with no definitive cure. Out of several proposed pathophysiology, microbial infection has recently been identified as one of the key pathogenic contributors for the development and progression of AD. In this context, the present study aims at a repurposing strategy through luliconazole (a potent imidazole derivative)-loaded optimized nanoliposomal carriers to treat AD. Optimized luliconazole-loaded nanoliposomes (LuNLs) were developed by the conventional thin-film hydration method followed by characterization in terms of FESEM, AFM, zeta potential, average size, loading %, and drug release (in vitro). The in vivo effectiveness of the LuNLs was investigated in LPS-induced AD rats. Molecular docking and simulation analysis demonstrated a favorable docking score between luliconazole and selected AD proteins. Spherical, nanosized (52.42 nm), negatively charged (-29.9 mV) LuNLs were reported showing a sustained drug release up to 24 h. An in vivo behavioral study depicted improved cognitive behavior in the LuNLs-treated group as compared to control groups. In vivo antioxidant activity in terms of SOD, MDA, and GSH inhibition by LuNLs was found comparable to that of standard formulation-treated groups, depicting the neuroprotective behavior of LuNLs. The histopathological observation of brain tissue in the LuNLs/control group further substantiated the in vivo behavioral study data. Based on the reports, luliconazole may be used as a viable, efficacious alternative for the treatment of AD, though further preclinical studies are highly warranted.
Additional Links: PMID-41502736
PubMed:
Citation:
show bibtex listing
hide bibtex listing
@article {pmid41502736,
year = {2025},
author = {Biswal, B and Pattnaik, S and Satapathy, BS and Maharana, L},
title = {Luliconazole-Loaded Nanoliposomes as a Repurposing Strategy to Combat Memory Dysfunction in LPS-Induced Alzheimer's Rats.},
journal = {ACS omega},
volume = {10},
number = {48},
pages = {59655-59674},
pmid = {41502736},
issn = {2470-1343},
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major neurodegenerative disorder with no definitive cure. Out of several proposed pathophysiology, microbial infection has recently been identified as one of the key pathogenic contributors for the development and progression of AD. In this context, the present study aims at a repurposing strategy through luliconazole (a potent imidazole derivative)-loaded optimized nanoliposomal carriers to treat AD. Optimized luliconazole-loaded nanoliposomes (LuNLs) were developed by the conventional thin-film hydration method followed by characterization in terms of FESEM, AFM, zeta potential, average size, loading %, and drug release (in vitro). The in vivo effectiveness of the LuNLs was investigated in LPS-induced AD rats. Molecular docking and simulation analysis demonstrated a favorable docking score between luliconazole and selected AD proteins. Spherical, nanosized (52.42 nm), negatively charged (-29.9 mV) LuNLs were reported showing a sustained drug release up to 24 h. An in vivo behavioral study depicted improved cognitive behavior in the LuNLs-treated group as compared to control groups. In vivo antioxidant activity in terms of SOD, MDA, and GSH inhibition by LuNLs was found comparable to that of standard formulation-treated groups, depicting the neuroprotective behavior of LuNLs. The histopathological observation of brain tissue in the LuNLs/control group further substantiated the in vivo behavioral study data. Based on the reports, luliconazole may be used as a viable, efficacious alternative for the treatment of AD, though further preclinical studies are highly warranted.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-10
CmpDate: 2026-01-08
Development of Novel 3‑Phenylpropanamide Derivatives as BChE Inhibitors for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease.
ACS omega, 10(48):59522-59534.
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative degenerative disorder among the elderly, featured by progressive cognitive decline and memory impairment. Due to its complex pathogenesis, there is still no effective therapeutic drug to date. Recently, selective BChE inhibition has been regarded as a potent approach for treating AD. In this work, we conducted structural optimization and structure-activity relationship studies on the previously obtained lead compound EMC-4f, and obtained the potential selective BChE inhibitor 12a (eqBChE, IC50 = 1.3 μM; huBChE, IC50 = 0.95 μM). The in vitro results exhibited that 12a showed good BBB permeability. Moreover, 12a demonstrated significant neuroprotective effects on l-Glu/Aβ25-35-induced HT22 cells injury. Further, the in vivo tests suggested that 12a remarkably alleviated mice cognitive impairment induced by scopolamine. Therefore, these data present that 12a is a promising BChE inhibitor against AD.
Additional Links: PMID-41502722
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41502722,
year = {2025},
author = {Wu, H and Huang, N and Wang, K and Mi, J and Liu, Z and Wang, J and Sang, Z and Tan, Z},
title = {Development of Novel 3‑Phenylpropanamide Derivatives as BChE Inhibitors for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease.},
journal = {ACS omega},
volume = {10},
number = {48},
pages = {59522-59534},
pmid = {41502722},
issn = {2470-1343},
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative degenerative disorder among the elderly, featured by progressive cognitive decline and memory impairment. Due to its complex pathogenesis, there is still no effective therapeutic drug to date. Recently, selective BChE inhibition has been regarded as a potent approach for treating AD. In this work, we conducted structural optimization and structure-activity relationship studies on the previously obtained lead compound EMC-4f, and obtained the potential selective BChE inhibitor 12a (eqBChE, IC50 = 1.3 μM; huBChE, IC50 = 0.95 μM). The in vitro results exhibited that 12a showed good BBB permeability. Moreover, 12a demonstrated significant neuroprotective effects on l-Glu/Aβ25-35-induced HT22 cells injury. Further, the in vivo tests suggested that 12a remarkably alleviated mice cognitive impairment induced by scopolamine. Therefore, these data present that 12a is a promising BChE inhibitor against AD.},
}
RevDate: 2026-01-08
Morroniside Modulates Microglia Polarization via the CX3CL1/CX3CR1/PU.1 Axis in ApoE4 Transgenic Mice.
Phytotherapy research : PTR [Epub ahead of print].
Microglia monitor disease stimulation, neuronal apoptosis, and neural repair, and their overactivation-induced inflammation plays a key role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Morroniside (Mor), an iridoid glycoside compound in Cornus officinalis, is one of the effective active components. The effects of Mor on antioxidant stress, antiapoptosis, and nerve repair function have been widely studied, but the mechanism of Mor in AD treatment remains unclear. To study the neuroprotective effects of Mor and elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying its improvement of AD symptoms, we used ApoE4 transgenic mice and ApoE4-transfected BV2 cells as models of AD, focusing on microglia phenotype, function, and neuroinflammation. The 10-month-old mice were randomly divided into the ApoE3 control group (ApoE3 + Veh), the ApoE4 model group (ApoE4 + Veh), and the ApoE4 + Mor 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg groups as in vivo models. The in vitro BV2-ApoE model was constructed via lentiviral transfection. The effects of Mor on cognitive function of AD models were assessed through behavioral tests, western blot, immunofluorescence staining, and ELISA to measure changes of related pathological and inflammatory factors. Mor improved the cognitive function of ApoE4 transgenic mice by reducing Aβ plaques in the brain, improving the structural lesions of hippocampal neurons, and increasing synaptic plasticity in the brain of AD mice. In addition, Mor promoted the transformation of microglia from the M1 to the M2 phenotype, inhibited the activation of the CX3CR1/PU.1 signaling axis, and alleviated the dysfunction of microglia both in vitro and in vivo. CX3CR1 siRNA and PU.1 siRNA were used further to verify the regulatory effect of Mor on microglia phenotype. Our findings indicate that Mor can inhibit neuroinflammation, reduce Aβ accumulation, and improve synaptic damage in ApoE4 mice via the CX3CL1/CX3CR1/PU.1 pathway regulating the phenotype and function of microglia. This study provides a new therapeutic candidate for the prevention and treatment of AD.
Additional Links: PMID-41502346
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41502346,
year = {2026},
author = {Chang, YY and Zheng, XH and Wang, MW and Zhang, QW and Gao, YT and Wang, YN and Sun, YT and Fan, HH and Li, X and Du, LD and Xie, XM and Pang, XB},
title = {Morroniside Modulates Microglia Polarization via the CX3CL1/CX3CR1/PU.1 Axis in ApoE4 Transgenic Mice.},
journal = {Phytotherapy research : PTR},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ptr.70177},
pmid = {41502346},
issn = {1099-1573},
support = {251111313400//Key R&D Program of Henan Province/ ; 252300421379//Natural Science Foundation of Henan/ ; 25B350004//Key Scientific Research Projects of Henan Higher Education Institutions/ ; 82501727//Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 22508091//Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Microglia monitor disease stimulation, neuronal apoptosis, and neural repair, and their overactivation-induced inflammation plays a key role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Morroniside (Mor), an iridoid glycoside compound in Cornus officinalis, is one of the effective active components. The effects of Mor on antioxidant stress, antiapoptosis, and nerve repair function have been widely studied, but the mechanism of Mor in AD treatment remains unclear. To study the neuroprotective effects of Mor and elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying its improvement of AD symptoms, we used ApoE4 transgenic mice and ApoE4-transfected BV2 cells as models of AD, focusing on microglia phenotype, function, and neuroinflammation. The 10-month-old mice were randomly divided into the ApoE3 control group (ApoE3 + Veh), the ApoE4 model group (ApoE4 + Veh), and the ApoE4 + Mor 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg groups as in vivo models. The in vitro BV2-ApoE model was constructed via lentiviral transfection. The effects of Mor on cognitive function of AD models were assessed through behavioral tests, western blot, immunofluorescence staining, and ELISA to measure changes of related pathological and inflammatory factors. Mor improved the cognitive function of ApoE4 transgenic mice by reducing Aβ plaques in the brain, improving the structural lesions of hippocampal neurons, and increasing synaptic plasticity in the brain of AD mice. In addition, Mor promoted the transformation of microglia from the M1 to the M2 phenotype, inhibited the activation of the CX3CR1/PU.1 signaling axis, and alleviated the dysfunction of microglia both in vitro and in vivo. CX3CR1 siRNA and PU.1 siRNA were used further to verify the regulatory effect of Mor on microglia phenotype. Our findings indicate that Mor can inhibit neuroinflammation, reduce Aβ accumulation, and improve synaptic damage in ApoE4 mice via the CX3CL1/CX3CR1/PU.1 pathway regulating the phenotype and function of microglia. This study provides a new therapeutic candidate for the prevention and treatment of AD.},
}
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RJR Experience and Expertise
Researcher
Robbins holds BS, MS, and PhD degrees in the life sciences. He served as a tenured faculty member in the Zoology and Biological Science departments at Michigan State University. He is currently exploring the intersection between genomics, microbial ecology, and biodiversity — an area that promises to transform our understanding of the biosphere.
Educator
Robbins has extensive experience in college-level education: At MSU he taught introductory biology, genetics, and population genetics. At JHU, he was an instructor for a special course on biological database design. At FHCRC, he team-taught a graduate-level course on the history of genetics. At Bellevue College he taught medical informatics.
Administrator
Robbins has been involved in science administration at both the federal and the institutional levels. At NSF he was a program officer for database activities in the life sciences, at DOE he was a program officer for information infrastructure in the human genome project. At the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, he served as a vice president for fifteen years.
Technologist
Robbins has been involved with information technology since writing his first Fortran program as a college student. At NSF he was the first program officer for database activities in the life sciences. At JHU he held an appointment in the CS department and served as director of the informatics core for the Genome Data Base. At the FHCRC he was VP for Information Technology.
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While still at Michigan State, Robbins started his first publishing venture, founding a small company that addressed the short-run publishing needs of instructors in very large undergraduate classes. For more than 20 years, Robbins has been operating The Electronic Scholarly Publishing Project, a web site dedicated to the digital publishing of critical works in science, especially classical genetics.
Speaker
Robbins is well-known for his speaking abilities and is often called upon to provide keynote or plenary addresses at international meetings. For example, in July, 2012, he gave a well-received keynote address at the Global Biodiversity Informatics Congress, sponsored by GBIF and held in Copenhagen. The slides from that talk can be seen HERE.
Facilitator
Robbins is a skilled meeting facilitator. He prefers a participatory approach, with part of the meeting involving dynamic breakout groups, created by the participants in real time: (1) individuals propose breakout groups; (2) everyone signs up for one (or more) groups; (3) the groups with the most interested parties then meet, with reports from each group presented and discussed in a subsequent plenary session.
Designer
Robbins has been engaged with photography and design since the 1960s, when he worked for a professional photography laboratory. He now prefers digital photography and tools for their precision and reproducibility. He designed his first web site more than 20 years ago and he personally designed and implemented this web site. He engages in graphic design as a hobby.
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Dinosaur tail, complete with feathers, found preserved in amber.
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Mysterious fast radio burst (FRB) detected in the distant universe.
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